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The Honky Tonk Man
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Roy Wayne Farris (born January 25, 1953) is an American retired professional wrestler. He is best known for his tenure in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) from 1986 to 1991, where he performed under the ring name The Honky Tonk Man.[1]

Key Information

He also performed for World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in 1994, and for Stampede Wrestling between 1982 and 1986. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of the 2019 induction ceremony.[2] A heel for the majority of his active professional wrestling career, he has been described by Bleacher Report as "one of the greatest villains to ever grace a professional wrestling ring".[3]

His 454-day reign as WWE Intercontinental Champion was the longest reign in the history of the title until it was broken by Gunther in 2023.

Professional wrestling career

[edit]

Early career (1977–1984)

[edit]
Main article: The Blond Bombers

Farris began his career in 1977 working in Malden, Missouri and wrestled alongside his training partner Koko B. Ware for promoter Henry Rogers.[4] Farris then moved on to Memphis Wrestling in 1978, originally working as a jobber to the stars.[5] He wrestled frequently in Birmingham, Dothan, Mobile, and Pensacola as "Dynamite" Wayne Farris. He achieved greater success when he teamed with Larry Latham to form The Blond Bombers when they were put together by Jerry Brisco in Florida Championship Wrestling.[5] The Bombers were later put with Sgt. Danny Davis as their manager when they came back to Memphis.[5]

The Blond Bombers were involved in heated feuds with several fan favorite teams across the two competing Tennessee promotions, appearing in both Nick Gulas's Nashville based territory, and Jerry Jarrett's Memphis area. Their signature moment was the now famous "Tupelo Concession Stand Brawl" against Jerry Lawler and Bill Dundee. He then had stints in the American Wrestling Association (AWA), Jim Crockett Promotions, World Wrestling Council (WWC), Southeastern Championship Wrestling, Southwest Championship Wrestling, National Wrestling Alliance and Stampede Wrestling through the early 1980s, winning multiple singles and tag team championships in each.

Stampede Wrestling (1982–1986)

[edit]

Farris made his debut for Stampede Wrestling in Calgary in 1982 where the Honky Tonk Wayne gimmick was born. A spinoff of rock star Elvis Presley, he sported slicked-back hair, sideburns, and carried a guitar.[5] Honky and Ron Starr won the Stampede Wrestling International Tag Team Championship[4] in 1985 and 1986. He later teamed with Cuban Assassin to win the International Tag Team Championship. On June 20, 1986, he defeated Bad News Allen for the Stampede North American Heavyweight Championship; the title was vacated when Honky left for WWF in 1986.[5]

World Wrestling Federation (1986–1991)

[edit]

Early run (1986–1987)

[edit]

Farris entered the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in July 1986 under the ring name The Honky Tonk Man.[5] Honky made his televised debut on the August 30, 1986 episode of The Body Shop (the last Body Shop interview segment conducted by Don Muraco), held on the final taping of All-Star Wrestling. Taped several days later, he was introduced to fans at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center by Junkyard Dog in the final episode of WWF Championship Wrestling, which also aired on August 30.

The WWF's introduction of the new character continued apace on their new clutch of syndicated programs that debuted that fall. On September 6, 1986, on the first episode of WWF Superstars, a promo aired from Honky where he declared that he would tap dance on the head of Paul Orndorff. Similar promos aired on following episodes of Superstars that month, as well as the new Wrestling Challenge syndicated program. Honky made his televised WWF debut on the September 28, 1986, episode of Wrestling Challenge, defeating Terry Gibbs.[5] Originally pushed as a fan favorite wrestler with an Elvis impersonator gimmick,[1] he was endorsed via an inset promo by none other than WWF World Heavyweight Champion Hulk Hogan himself. He made his debut on the house show circuit on October 8, 1986, defeating WWF Intercontinental Champion Randy Savage via disqualification in a match in Warren, Ohio. Wrestling as a fan-favorite, he competed against Randy Savage and Jake Roberts in subsequent matches. Honky received a televised match against Savage on October 18, 1986, in an encounter broadcast from Philadelphia, but lost by countout.

Fan support was lukewarm to hostile, and the company pivoted as Honky soon cut a series of promos with Jesse "The Body" Ventura that aired on the WWF's syndicated programming asking fans for a "vote of confidence".[5] When he asked for the vote of confidence, he insulted fans in a way that resembled Andy Kaufman before him. On November 16 he wrestled Mr X (Danny Davis) in a match taped in Toronto for Prime Time Wrestling, with those in attendance firmly against him. On the November 22, 1986 episode of Superstars, the results predictably came back negative, and it was not long before Honky turned into a cocky villain and took on "Mouth of the South" Jimmy Hart (later billed "Colonel" as a reference to Elvis Presley's manager Colonel Tom Parker) as his manager.[5][6]

Honky's first major feud came against Jake "The Snake" Roberts, who was in the midst of a fan favorite turn. The feud intensified when Honky attacked Roberts on his talk show set, The Snake Pit.[7] According to Roberts, Honky was supposed to hit him with a gimmicked balsa wood guitar;[8] he believes Farris accidentally grabbed a real, non-gimmicked guitar (made of fiberglass) and smashed it across Roberts' back, legitimately injuring him.[9][7] According to Roberts, this started his dependence on prescription pain medication (in an interview, Roberts alleges that he was picking pieces of the guitar out of his back for weeks after he was hit).[8] This has been disputed as Roberts had been a known drug user years before this incident.[9] In an interview for World Wrestling Insanity, Honky disputed Roberts' assertion saying, "That's not true and, in fact I attribute most of that to Mick Foley, who wrote about it in his book, and Jake, who lied about it".[7][9] Yet Roberts continued to wrestle regularly following this angle bringing into question the alleged non-gimmicked guitar shot.[7] During their feud, which culminated at WrestleMania III, Honky grabbed the ring ropes to score a tainted win; afterward, Roberts cleared the ring of Honky before he and Alice Cooper attacked Hart with Damien, Roberts' python.[10]

Following WrestleMania his feud with Jake Roberts was temporarily sidelined, with the newly returned Ken Patera substituting for the injured Roberts in multiple house show matches. For the first time since his WWF debut he was on the losing end of a feud, being pinned numerous times. On the May 18, 1987 episode of Prime Time Wrestling he suffered his first televised pinfall, losing again to Patera. On the June 8th episode of Prime Time he again loss by pinfall, this time to Billy Jack Haynes. On May 30 he again lost to Patera on Prime Time.[11]

Intercontinental Heavyweight Champion (1987–1988)

[edit]
Honky Tonk Man, c. 1987

On the June 13, 1987, episode of Superstars, in Buffalo, New York, Honky defeated Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat for the WWF Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship; Honky reversed Steamboat's inside cradle and grabbed onto the bottom ropes for extra leverage to get the pinfall win.[1] Butch Reed was originally scheduled to win the title, but was a no show.[5] Honky was originally meant to be a transitional champion to only hold on to the title for a short period of time, until Roberts failed several drug tests following WrestleMania[8] and Honky was booked to remain champion for what would be a record-setting run. In a later interview, Honky remarked that Hulk Hogan, whom he then had a friendly, collaborative relationship with outside of the ring, had helped give Honky a chance at the title after a coincidental meeting between Hogan, Honky, and Vince McMahon took place. Hogan stuck up for Honky, even though McMahon had someone else in mind.[12]

Honky Tonk Man (right) stomps on Randy Savage (bottom left), circa 1988

To preserve his title, which could only be taken by pinfall or submission, Honky often got himself deliberately counted out or disqualified against challengers such as Steamboat, Billy Jack Haynes, Bruno Sammartino, and George "The Animal" Steele. Also during this time, Honky began using a 50s-styled, themed entrance song performed by Farris[13] (included on Piledriver: The Wrestling Album II, the WWF's second album of wrestling themes). By September 1987, "Macho Man" Randy Savage was in the midst of a fan favorite turn and began challenging Honky for the title (after Honky had made comments about himself being "the greatest Intercontinental Heavyweight Champion of all time" and making disparaging comments about former champions, particularly Savage). Although they had several matches beforehand – they had also met in 1986, when the then-villain Savage was champion and challenged by the fan favorite Honky – the first Savage-Honky match to air on national television was on the October 3, 1987 Saturday Night's Main Event XII, which was taped on September 23 in Hershey, Pennsylvania. During that match, Savage nearly defeated Honky until Honky's allies in Jimmy Hart's stable, The Hart Foundation (who had interfered throughout the match), ran into the ring and attacked Savage, getting Honky disqualified. Savage's manager, Miss Elizabeth, attempted to stop the attack on Savage, but Honky shoved her down and she fled to the locker room; meanwhile, Honky completed his attempt to break his guitar over Savage's head. Shortly thereafter, Miss Elizabeth returned with Savage's former rival, Hulk Hogan, who aided Savage in running off the heels (leading to the formation of The Mega Powers). Honky continued his bitter feud against Savage, as Honky would frequently make advances toward Miss Elizabeth – including one such incident at the 1987 Slammy Awards – to agitate his challenger. The last high-profile Savage-Honky match, aired as part of the undercard to Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant on the 1988 The Main Event I, saw Honky lose by countout after Savage rammed him into the ring post on the outside of the ring.[5] Their feud was blown off in the weeks before WrestleMania IV through a series of tag team-style steel cage matches, involving various allies of both Honky and Savage on their respective sides and Savage usually emerging victorious.

Honky retained the title in matches with Savage and Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake, Honky's next major rival. During the Beefcake-Honky feud – which began at WrestleMania IV (where Jimmy Hart got him disqualified by knocking out the referee with his megaphone while Beefcake had Honky in a sleeper hold, and this saw Honky retain the title, but Hart got a haircut from Beefcake himself)[14] and continued during the spring and summer of 1988 – Honky vowed not to let Beefcake cut his ducktail hair, something Beefcake often said he would do in promos. In their matches, Honky was often seconded by a mysterious woman named Peggy Sue; while WWF Women's Champion Sherri Martel played the role for television tapings, more often than not, "Peggy Sue" was Jimmy Hart dressed in drag. Beefcake countered with a "woman" of his own: "Georgina" (George "The Animal" Steele in drag). Honky and Beefcake were scheduled to square off at the 1988 SummerSlam in what was billed as Beefcake's last shot at the now renamed Intercontinental Championship.

In a storyline twist, Beefcake was thrust in a feud with "Outlaw" Ron Bass after Bass committed a sneak attack on Beefcake; the incident was aired the weekend before SummerSlam. At the event, it was announced that a "mystery opponent" would face Honky for the title. When it came time for the match, Honky grabbed the microphone and proclaimed that he did not care who his opponent was. The Ultimate Warrior then ran out and pinned his stunned opponent in just 31 seconds for the Intercontinental Championship, ending his reign at 454 days.[1] Honky had been the champion for one year, two months, and 27 days (454 days total), which stood as the longest Intercontinental Championship reign until September 2023, when he was surpassed by Gunther.[1][15]

Rhythm and Blues and departure (1989–1991)

[edit]
Main article: Rhythm and Blues
Honky Tonk Man (right) with his Rhythm and Blues tag team partner Greg Valentine on 7 March 1989 at the El Paso Convention Center

In 1989, Honky entered the Royal Rumble, where he was eliminated by Tito Santana and Bushwhacker Butch.[16] In late 1989 and 1990, he and Greg Valentine, who was also managed by Jimmy Hart, aligned themselves as the tag team Rhythm and Blues in which Valentine became a Roy Orbison rip-off since Honky was an Elvis rip-off.[1] At WrestleMania VI, they notably rode in a pink Cadillac,[17] with future WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page as the driver. After competing against such teams as The Hart Foundation at WrestleMania V[18] and The Legion of Doom, Rhythm & Blues were part of Ted DiBiase's Million Dollar Team along with his "mystery" partner, the debuting Undertaker, against Rhodes' Dream Team of The Hart Foundation and Koko B. Ware at the 1990 Survivor Series, where they emerged victorious.[19] Honky wrapped up his WWF career with a stint as a pro-villains color commentator alongside Vince McMahon and Roddy Piper on Superstars[4] before leaving in January 1991.[1]

Universal Wrestling Federation (1991)

[edit]

Universal Wrestling Federation promoter Herb Abrams immediately set about signing Ferris to his growing roster of former WWF stars, adding to a burgeoning roster which also included recent signings Andre the Giant, Greg Valentine, and Rick Rude. He (as well as Rude and Valentine) made their debuts on the January 9, 1991 tapings of UWF Fury Hour. Appearing as The Honkytonk Man, Ferris did an in-ring segment with Captain Lou Albano where he was prevented from singing for the fans in attendance. The WWF filed a lawsuit claiming trademark to the Honkytonk Man character, with the segment subsequently not airing. This would also extend to Rick Rude and Greg Valentine, who would never actually appear on UWF television. Ferris left the promotion following a pay dispute with Abrams, and the latter refused to pay him or Valentine.[20]

Independent circuit (1991–1994)

[edit]

After leaving the UWF, Honky went the independent circuit. He wrestled his former partner Greg Valentine to a double disqualification for United Wrestling Alliance on February 19, 1991. He faced USWA Heavyweight Champion Jerry Lawler at the TWA Spring Spectacular 2 on May 18, 1991, losing via disqualification.[21] Ferris next appeared for the TWA (Tri-State Wrestling Alliance), where he faced Paul Orndorff.[22] He lost to Don Muraco at Century Toyota on June 28, 1992. Then he made a one night appearance on November 11, 1993, for United States Wrestling Association as he lost to Jeff Jarrett by disqualification.

World Championship Wrestling (1994)

[edit]

On August 5, 1994, Ferris resurfaced in the Big Two, joining World Championship Wrestling and defeating Terry Taylor on WCW Worldwide. Promotional vignettes began airing for the former WWF star, and he next appeared on August 15, 1994, on WCW Pro with a win over Brad Armstrong. The Clash of The Champions special on August 24, 1994, featured the debut of his new song "Honky Dog Baby". Honky Tonk Man remained undefeated in WCW, defeating Mike Winner and Sam Houston. He began appearing on WCW's renewed house show circuit in October, defeating Brian Pillman in multiple encounters. On October 24, 1994, he appeared on his first WCW PPV, wrestling WCW World Television Champion Johnny B. Badd on Halloween Havoc in a match that went to a time limit draw.

Honky Tonk suffered his first WCW defeat on October 28, 1994, losing to Johnny B Badd at a house show in Tampa, Florida. This presaged several further defeats to Badd on the house show circuit; in the meantime it was announced he would face the WCW World Television Champion in a rematch at Starrcade. Honky Tonk remained undefeated on television, with his final match before the PPV coming on December 17 in a win over Steve Collins on WCW Worldwide.[23] At Starrcade 94 he left the company due to a dispute with management. In his book Controversy Creates Cash, Eric Bischoff stated that his favorite firing was that of Honky. Honky has responded by saying that it was an honor, as Bischoff had fired a number of people while in WCW until he got himself fired.

Return to Independent Circuit (1995–1999)

[edit]

After an unsuccessful stint with WCW, Honky returned to the indies. In 1995 he wrestled for the National Wrestling Conference having matches against former WWF stars Virgil, Ultimate Warrior, and Jake Roberts. He worked with them until 1998.

In 1996 he worked for American Wrestling Federation where he feuded with Koko B. Ware.

In 1998 he worked for Elite Canadian Championship Wrestling (ECCW) in British Columbia, Canada. On May 5, 1999, he wrestled Michael Hayes in a losing effort for SSOW.

Return to the WWF (1996–1998, 2001)

[edit]

After a brief stint in the American Wrestling Federation, Honky resurfaced in the WWF on December 17, 1996, at a Monday Night Raw taping in Tampa, Florida. In a show that aired on December 29, Honky Tonk told the fans that he could not sing for the fans and instead provided color commentary. This would expand to commentary work on Raw Is War, WWF Superstars, and Shotgun Saturday Night, and then as the manager of Billy Gunn, who had started a singles run.[5] Under Honky's tutelage, Gunn became known as "Rockabilly" in April 1997, which was a short-lived and unsuccessful gimmick[5] and was also disliked by Honky himself.[8] When Gunn formed the New Age Outlaws with Road Dogg in October 1997, Honky was taken off television. He then made an appearance in the 1998 Royal Rumble event eliminated by Vader.[5]

Honky returned to the WWF for a one-time appearance at the 2001 Royal Rumble, but was quickly eliminated by Kane after being hit on the head with his guitar.[24]

Later independent career (2000–2019)

[edit]
The Honky Tonk Man with Deven Michaels

Since 2000, Honky has worked independent wrestling shows all over the world. Honky, along with Ryan Smith and a host of others, ran a series of controversial wrestling websites from 2000 to 2006. TheHonkyTonkMan.com featured frequent updates from Honky himself, a highly interactive message board community, extensive photo gallery, audio updates, and more. Notable online feuds began between The Honky Tonk Man and Jerry Lawler, Roddy Piper, and others. These often intense online rivalries became a major drawing point for fans. The website unexpectedly closed without much explanation in December 2006. The site now forwards to various new ventures of former website manager Ryan Smith, who remains tight-lipped about the closing.

Honky has wrestled for Southern Championship Wrestling in Castroville, Texas, and MSW in eastern Canada. On April 23, 2008, Honky was seen wrestling in Presque Isle, Maine for the North Atlantic American Wrestling Association promotion. He appeared on Heavy on Wrestling on June 14, 2008, in Superior, Wisconsin. He wrestled as a fan favorite, defeating Big Brody Hoofer and hitting Cameron Steele with a guitar. He also appeared at PDX Wrestling (the new-age Portland Wrestling, run by Sandy Barr's son Josh) teaming with a local fan favorite against two villains.

On April 26, 2008, Honky was inducted into the XWF Hall of Fame by its creator Jack Blaze at their 2008 XWF Superbrawl event. XWF was later renamed LPW (Legends Pro Wrestling) where Honky is still honored in their Hall of Fame. On June 28, 2008, in Chicago Ridge, Illinois, he made a special guest appearance for Ring of Honor with the storyline that "Sweet N' Sour" Larry Sweeney had brought him on board with his Sweet N' Sour, Inc. faction. He praised the crowd and was about to sing and dance for them until Sweeney stepped in and told him he would not be doing either until their demands were met.

On July 27, 2008, Honky almost had the index finger of his right hand severed during a public appearance in Canada before an Ultimate Championship Wrestling show in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. He was making an appearance at Boston Pizza in Charlottetown several hours before the show when someone wanted to take a photo with him with both men clashing guitars. When the guitars collided, the neck of Honky's guitar turned and sliced into Honky's finger, almost severing it. Honky was immediately taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital where doctors stitched the finger and bandaged it. Honky made his appearance at the Ultimate Championship Wrestling show several hours later. He was unable to wrestle his scheduled match due to the injury and was replaced by Trash Canyon, whom he managed from ringside. Honky, although injured and in obvious pain, sang his theme song twice in the ring.

In August 2008, Honky appeared at Wrestling Supershows across Canada. Honky also made appearances in SWCW in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. On October 24, 2008, he wrestled for Big Time Wrestling (his first match in four months), beating L'Empereur. On January 7, 2009, he appeared in a World Pro Wrestling event in Colusa, California, teaming with Doink The Clown (a new masked version) to face WPW World Tag Team Champions The First Class Express, Jerry Grey and Mighty Henrich. The match ended in a no contest as Doink turned on Honky and the three triple-teamed him. On May 7, 2009, Honky and Bushwacker Luke defeated "Kowboy" Mike Hughes and "Wildman" Gary Williams for the UCW Tag Team Championship. On January 31, 2011, Honky made his Dynamic Wrestling Alliance debut defeating Col. Jonathan James at the "Golden Opportunity II" event in Middletown, Ohio.

On June 5, 2016, Honky wrestled in Impact Pro Wrestling in New Zealand, at the Armageddon Expo in Wellington. He teamed up with Brook Duncan and Britenay to defeat the team of the IPW New Zealand Heavyweight Champion Curt Chaos, Taylor Adams and Mr. Burns.

Honky made a cameo appearance in the first episode of season 3 of Lucha Underground, appearing as a prison warden returning Dario Cueto's things upon his release.

Third return to WWE (2008–2019)

[edit]

Final matches (2008–2009)

[edit]

In 2008, Santino Marella announced his intention to break Honky's record for longest Intercontinental Championship reign, usually displaying a special "Honk-a-meter" comparing Honky's 64-week record with the length of his own reign at the time.[1] On the October 6 episode of Raw, Honky (now a fan favorite for the first time since 1986), along with Goldust and Roddy Piper, was named as one of the possible opponents for Marella's Intercontinental Championship at Cyber Sunday. He was elected by fans to challenge for the title with 35% of the vote; despite concern that his injured finger might require surgery,[25] he did appear, winning the match by disqualification (thus failing to win the title). After the match had ended, Goldust and Piper came down to the ring and, along with Honky, attacked Marella.[26] On the October 27 episode of Raw, Honky appeared as a special guest commentator. After an impersonation of Marella's on-screen girlfriend, Beth Phoenix, Charlie Haas was knocked into the announcer table, and Marella attacked Honky, prompting Piper and Goldust to block Marella's escape from the ring. Upon Goldust's entry to the ring, Marella turned around to be smashed over the head by Honky's guitar.[27] Honky inducted Koko B. Ware into the WWE Hall of Fame on April 4, 2009.[28]

Sporadic appearances (2010–2013)

[edit]

In 2010, WWE offered him a place in the WWE Hall of Fame, but he rejected it.[8] Honky made a brief appearance on Old School Raw on March 4, 2013. Following a match between the team of Brodus Clay and Tensai and 3MB, he smashed 3MB member Heath Slater over the head with a guitar. He then danced with Clay and Tensai to his signature "Cool, Cocky, Bad" theme song.

Hall of Fame (2019)

[edit]

On February 26, 2019, WWE confirmed that the Honky Tonk Man would join the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2019.[2] He was inducted on April 7, 2019, by his former manager Jimmy Hart.[17]

Other media

[edit]

Honky appeared in the coin operated arcade game WWF Superstars which debuted in 1989. Honky appeared in an episode of the court based show Judge Jeanine Pirro as a witness to the defendant; the episode, which aired on October 11, 2010, was also the highest rated show for Judge Jeanine Pirro of all time. Honky appeared in the video game WWE All Stars as a free downloadable character. He also has appeared in WWE 2K15 as part of a downloadable content pack and is in WWE 2K16 as an unlockable character from the special objectives. His most recent video game appearance is in WWE 2K25 as a purchasable character costing 1000VC, the in-game currency in the game. He was cast in John Wesley Norton's film Executive Ranks. Honky also appeared in Insane Clown Posse's music video for "How Many Times" along with The Bushwhackers and his former tag team partner Greg Valentine.[29]

Personal life

[edit]

Farris is a first cousin of Jerry Lawler and a first cousin once-removed of Brian Christopher. He is an avid golfer in his spare time.[30]

Farris's first marriage to Judy Lynn Nuckolls was brief, but he has been married to his current wife Tammy since 1984.[31] He has lived in Gilbert, Arizona since June 1993.[citation needed]

Championships and accomplishments

[edit]

References

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

The Honky Tonk Man

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Honky Tonk Man, ring name of Roy Wayne Farris (born January 25, 1953, in Bolivar, Tennessee), is an American retired professional wrestler renowned for his flamboyant, Elvis Presley-inspired heel persona during his World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) tenure from 1986 to 1991. Farris began his wrestling career in 1978 after graduating from the University of Memphis with a B.S. in education in 1975, initially competing in regional promotions like the Continental Wrestling Association and Mid-South Wrestling under various gimmicks. Upon debuting in the WWF in 1986 as a smiling, fan-friendly performer, he quickly turned heel due to lukewarm crowd reception, adopting the cocky "Honky Tonk Man" persona complete with pink cadillac entrances, guitar props, and manager Jimmy Hart in his corner. His most defining achievement came on June 2, 1987, when he defeated Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat to win the WWF Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship, a title he defended successfully against challengers like Jake "The Snake" Roberts and "Macho Man" Randy Savage using his signature finisher, the Shake, Rattle & Roll. This reign lasted an unprecedented 454 days until he dropped the belt to in a 31-second squash match at on August 29, 1988, establishing the longest Intercontinental Championship run in WWE history—a record that stands unbroken. Later in his WWF run, Farris formed the rock 'n' roll Rhythm & Blues with Greg "The Hammer" Valentine in 1990 and briefly managed The Honky Tonk Man persona's "cousin" (Billie Gunn) before departing the promotion in 1991. He continued wrestling on the independent circuit and in promotions like until his retirement in 2019, while making sporadic WWF/ guest appearances, including a notable 2008 loss to . Throughout his career, Farris captured over 20 championships across various territories, but his WWF legacy as the ultimate arrogant champion solidified his status in . In recognition of these contributions, he was inducted into the in 2019 by during weekend in , New York. Post-retirement, Farris has served as a Legends contract holder, signing a new multi-year deal in April 2025, and resides in , occasionally participating in wrestling conventions and independent events.

Professional wrestling career

Early career (1977–1984)

Roy Wayne Farris was born on January 25, 1953, in , where he grew up immersed in the world of due to his family's deep ties to the industry, including his cousins Jerry "The King" Lawler and Ron Fuller. Farris's early fascination with the sport was fueled by watching these relatives perform and promote matches in southern territories, inspiring him to pursue a career in the ring despite initially working as a high school teacher and football coach. Farris trained under Herb Welch, the uncle of promoters Ron and Robert Fuller, beginning his preparation in the mid-1970s alongside fellow trainees like and "Dr. D" David Schultz. He made his professional debut in 1978 as a jobber in regional promotions, primarily the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA) in Memphis, where he quickly learned the fundamentals by losing to established talent to build their credibility. Early matches saw him competing under the straightforward Wayne Farris against mid-card wrestlers in the CWA and nearby southeastern circuits, honing his technical skills and understanding of storytelling in the ring. By the late 1970s, Farris formed the the Blond Bombers with Larry Latham, adopting a rugged persona that emphasized brawling and crowd antagonism, which became evident in high-profile feuds against top babyfaces like and . During this feud, the team won the in 1979. A pivotal moment came in 1979 during a chaotic brawl at a in , following a CWA event, where the Blond Bombers clashed violently with Lawler and Dundee, drawing significant territorial heat and showcasing Farris's ability to generate intense rivalries. These encounters, marked by hardcore elements and personal stakes, helped establish Farris as a reliable performer capable of elevating storylines. In the early 1980s, while working in Southeastern Championship Wrestling under the Fuller brothers, Farris transitioned to the " Wayne," blending his southern roots with a flashy, music-inspired flair reminiscent of —a of a Presley from a Birmingham fan further solidified this direction. This evolving persona laid the foundational elements of his signature rock 'n' roll gimmick, emphasizing charisma and showmanship amid matches against regional stars like . Farris's consistent regional success positioned him for broader opportunities, including a move to in 1982.

Stampede Wrestling (1982–1986)

In 1982, Roy Farris joined in , , where he debuted under the Honky Tonk Wayne, developing a inspired by that included flamboyant attire, a signature pink for entrances, and a guitar as a prop for post-match attacks. This character marked a significant evolution from his earlier generic babyface roles in U.S. territories, allowing him to establish himself as a cocky, antagonistic figure in the Canadian promotion's competitive roster. During his tenure, Farris partnered with Ron Starr to capture the Stampede International Tag Team Championship on multiple occasions, including reigns from October 25, 1985, to February 7, 1986, and another spanning 105 days earlier in the period, solidifying their status as dominant heels through aggressive defenses and interference tactics. He also engaged in high-profile feuds with top babyfaces like Bret Hart and Dynamite Kid, often clashing in multi-man tag matches and singles bouts that highlighted his character's smug arrogance against the promotion's technical powerhouses. These rivalries, which frequently involved challenges for mid-card accolades, helped elevate Farris's profile amid Stampede's intense territorial environment. Farris reached the pinnacle of his Stampede run by defeating Bad News Allen on June 20, 1986, to win the North American Heavyweight Championship, a title he defended successfully over the next 70 days before vacating it upon departing for the World Wrestling Federation later that year. His heel rockabilly persona thrived through these storylines, marked by cheap shots with the guitar and territorial bravado, contributing to his dominance until ceased operations in 1986 following its acquisition and absorption by the WWF.

World Wrestling Federation entry (1986–1987)

In 1986, Roy Wayne Farris, performing as The Honky Tonk Man, signed with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) after honing his Elvis Presley-inspired rock 'n' roll persona in . He initially debuted as a babyface on the September 28, 1986, episode of , defeating in a squash match that showcased his flashy ring gear and guitar prop. His televised in-ring debut on followed on October 4, 1986, where he bested Ron Shaw, but the babyface alignment failed to resonate with audiences, prompting a quick pivot to a cowardly character emphasizing evasion, cheap shots, and his signature pink Cadillac entrance. By late 1986, The Honky Tonk Man aligned with manager Jimmy Hart, "The Mouth of the South," who amplified his obnoxious persona through megaphone rants and interference. This partnership debuted prominently in vignettes and matches highlighting Honky's heel tactics, including mid-card bouts against jobbers and enhancement talent on WWF Superstars and Wrestling Challenge, where he often relied on Hart's distractions to secure victories. The duo's dynamic set the stage for elevated feuds, portraying Honky as a smug, guitar-wielding antagonist who targeted popular babyfaces to elevate his status. The Honky Tonk Man's breakout feud ignited with Jake "The Snake" Roberts in early 1987, stemming from a contentious interview on Roberts' "Snake Pit" segment. During the January 31, 1987, WWF Superstars episode, Honky smashed a guitar over Roberts' head in a real-life mishap that required stitches, introducing his weapon as a core element of his cowardly arsenal and drawing massive heat from the crowd. This angle escalated with promotional vignettes mocking Roberts' serpent Damien and Honky's taunts reversing crowd "USA" chants into boos for his unpatriotic heel bravado, positioning him as a mid-card agitator. The rivalry culminated at WrestleMania III on March 29, 1987, at the Pontiac Silverdome, where Roberts defeated Honky via pinfall after a DDT, though Honky's post-match guitar shot on Roberts prolonged their animosity. Throughout 1987, Honky's persona solidified through vignettes depicting him as a shake-rattle-and-roll showman who fled danger, often with Hart's aid, in squash wins over wrestlers like George "The Animal" Steele. He engaged in heated exchanges with other babyfaces, including early teases against , using guitar threats to build tension ahead of title contention. Key spotlight came at the King of the Ring event on September 4, 1987, in , where Honky participated in a non-title match against Jake "The Snake" Roberts, losing by disqualification after Hart's interference backfired. This encounter, part of the tournament undercard, underscored Honky's reliance on illicit tactics and propelled his pursuit of the Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship.

Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship reign (1987–1988)

On June 2, 1987, during an episode of taped at the Memorial Auditorium in , The Honky Tonk Man defeated Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat to win the WWF Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship. With assistance from his manager , who distracted the referee, Honky secured the victory via a roll-up pin while illegally grabbing the ring ropes for leverage, marking a classic tactic that set the tone for his title defenses. This upset win propelled Honky, a flamboyant impersonator character, into the spotlight as champion, transitioning him from a midcard entertainer to a prominent antagonist in the WWF. Throughout his 454-day reign—the longest in the title's history until surpassed it in 2023—Honky defended the championship against a series of popular babyfaces, frequently retaining it through disqualifications, count-outs, or interference to extend his run. Early challengers included in house show matches during July 1987, where Honky retained amid the Dog's aggressive pursuit, as well as and in televised bouts that showcased Honky's cocky persona and Hart's meddling. Notable defenses came against Jake "The Snake" Roberts at the King of the Ring event on September 4, 1987, ending in disqualification after Roberts attacked Honky post-match, and a double count-out with on November 21, 1987, during a house show in . Honky also retained via count-out against "Macho Man" on the February 5, 1988, edition of , further emphasizing his evasive style that frustrated fans and built heat. A pivotal feud developed with Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake starting in late 1987, highlighted by Honky's signature guitar attacks on Beefcake, including a brutal shot that sidelined the challenger temporarily and played into Beefcake's grooming gimmick. The rivalry escalated with angles teasing a "hair vs. title" stipulation, where Beefcake vowed to cut Honky's signature pompadour if victorious, culminating in a title match on March 27, 1988, at Trump Plaza in . There, Honky retained by disqualification after Hart interfered with a , preventing Beefcake from applying his sleeper hold and preserving the champion's locks. This ongoing conflict, blending comedy and violence, solidified Honky's role as a despised while extending his dominant tenure. The reign concluded dramatically at on August 29, 1988, at in , when Honky faced in a surprise matchup originally slated for before an injury sidelined him. Warrior, on a meteoric rise, overpowered Honky in just 31 seconds with a series of clotheslines and a gorilla press slam followed by a body splash, ending the historic run and catapulting Warrior to stardom. Honky's prolonged championship era, characterized by shrewd booking and entertaining villainy, remains a benchmark for longevity in WWF's midcard division.

Rhythm and Blues tag team and WWF departure (1989–1991)

Following the conclusion of his record-setting Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship reign, The Honky Tonk Man shifted focus to tag team competition in early 1990 by teaming with Greg "The Hammer" Valentine to form Rhythm and Blues in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). The duo, managed by the bombastic Jimmy Hart, embraced a flamboyant rock 'n' roll gimmick inspired by doo-wop aesthetics, featuring the entrance theme "Hunka Hunka Honky Love" and arrivals in a signature pink Cadillac driven by Diamond Dallas Page. This pairing aimed to revitalize both wrestlers' careers amid WWF's evolving emphasis on larger-than-life characters, blending Honky Tonk Man's Elvis Presley-inspired showmanship with Valentine's hard-hitting technical style. Rhythm and Blues quickly entered the tag team division, engaging in feuds with prominent duos such as the and , often at house shows and on syndicated television. Their first televised match came on the January 6, 1990, episode of Superstars, defeating Jim Gorman and . A highlight came at on April 1, 1990, where the team made a memorable in-ring debut performance, debuting their theme song to a live audience, though they were interrupted and attacked by during the segment, foreshadowing a brief rivalry. Later that year, at on November 22, 1990, Rhythm and Blues joined Ted DiBiase's Million Dollar Team (alongside ) in an elimination match against the and ' allies, but the team was defeated, with Honky Tonk Man eliminated by . Despite early momentum, faced mounting challenges within the overcrowded tag division, exacerbated by the WWF's signing of The Road Warriors ( and ) in May 1990, which prioritized new powerhouses and sidelined the duo's rock-themed antics. Internal tensions arose from clashing personalities and gimmick adjustments, including Valentine's initial resistance to dyeing his signature blonde hair black at Hart's insistence to fit the "blues" motif, though he later embraced it as a way to "shock the people." Valentine reflected that the team had strong chemistry and potential to capture the tag titles, but creative frustrations halted their push. By early 1991, The Honky Tonk Man's dissatisfaction with his booking and stalled momentum boiled over into contract disputes, centered on unfulfilled promises for increased pay and prominent storylines. He abruptly quit the WWF in January 1991, leading to no-shows for scheduled appearances, including a planned spot and the start of a storyline with Valentine that was advertised but never materialized. His final WWF match occurred on the January 12, 1991, episode of , a loss to The Mountie via pinfall after 5:12, after which he was released from his contract. This departure marked the end of and concluded Honky Tonk Man's full-time WWF tenure, contrasting sharply with his earlier singles success.

Universal Wrestling Federation stint (1991)

Following his departure from the World Wrestling Federation in early 1991, The Honky Tonk Man signed with the Universal Wrestling Federation (UWF) and debuted as a , maintaining his established Elvis Presley-inspired that included strutting to the ring with a guitar as a weapon. His first appearance occurred during UWF TV tapings on January 9, 1991, at the Penta Hotel in , where he joined for an in-ring interview segment known as "Captain's Corner," during which he cut a promo emphasizing his cocky attitude and superiority as a performer. Throughout his brief tenure, The Honky Tonk Man feuded with veteran heel , building tension through promos and confrontations that highlighted their contrasting styles—Koloff's brutal Russian bearhug tactics against the challenger's flashy, shake-rattle-and-roll offense. The rivalry peaked at UWF's on June 9, 1991, at the Manatee Civic Center in , where the two clashed in a singles match that ended in a double count-out after 8:45 of action, leaving fans dissatisfied and the storyline unresolved. The UWF's ongoing financial woes, including frequent bounced checks and unpaid wages to talent, severely hampered The Honky Tonk Man's push, preventing deeper storylines or title opportunities despite initial plans for him to contend for the held by Steve Williams. Promoter ' inability to secure consistent funding led to roster instability, with wrestlers like The Honky Tonk Man receiving delayed or insufficient compensation, ultimately forcing his exit after just a few months. This abbreviated run offered little career resurgence, as the promotion's collapse in viability shifted his focus to independent bookings, where he could more reliably draw on his established fame.

Independent circuit runs (1991–1994)

Following his brief stint in the Universal Wrestling Federation earlier in 1991, Roy Wayne Farris, performing as The Honky Tonk Man, transitioned to various independent promotions, where he revived his signature Elvis Presley-inspired gimmick characterized by flashy attire, guitar shots, and rockabilly promos. In 1993, Farris appeared prominently in the United States Wrestling Association (USWA), a Memphis-based promotion, featuring on their syndicated television broadcasts and engaging in matches against regional stars. On January 23, 1993, he was showcased alongside Sweet Sapphire during the USWA Title episode, which included first-round bouts such as the Bruise Brothers defeating Tony DeNucci and Scott Campione. Later that year, on November 11, 1993, in , Farris lost to by disqualification in a singles match, highlighting his role in building storylines with established USWA talent like the multi-time champion Jarrett. These appearances in the USWA, including occasional challenges within the division, allowed Farris to adapt his character to southern wrestling crowds while maintaining a schedule of house shows in smaller venues across the region. Farris also worked in other independents that year, such as the (IWF), before expanding his bookings in 1994 to include (SMW), a promotion emphasizing hardcore and territorial-style wrestling in and surrounding states. In SMW, he debuted in August 1994, participating in matches that pitted him against local s and babyfaces, including a bout where he teamed with to face opponents like Chad and unnamed partners in front of packed crowds at outdoor events. Additionally, in 1994, he competed in the Championship Wrestling Association (CWA) and United States Wrestling Federation (USWF), focusing on singles and encounters that sustained his post-WWF momentum through a demanding travel circuit of regional tours and TV tapings. This era helped cultivate a dedicated among indie fans nostalgic for his WWF persona, as he feuded with up-and-coming wrestlers in environments far removed from major arena spectacles.

World Championship Wrestling appearance (1994)

In 1994, The Honky Tonk Man signed a per-appearance contract with (WCW) at $1,000 per TV match or promo, facilitated by his former WWF rival . He debuted on August 24 at XXVIII, entering to a new titled "Honky Tonk Baby" and portraying his signature persona as a flamboyant impersonator managed by . His role was confined to the undercard, where he primarily faced preliminary talent in squash matches to build momentum toward a mid-card push. The Honky Tonk Man's most notable program was a short feud with WCW World Television Champion Johnny B. Badd (Marc Mero), beginning with a series of encounters that highlighted his guitar-based offense. On October 23 at , their non-title match ended in a 10-minute time-limit draw after Honky stalled to run out the clock. The rivalry continued on November 16 at XXIX, where Honky was disqualified for striking Badd with his signature guitar, a spot that echoed his WWF antics but failed to elevate his status. He also notched quick victories over opponents like Brad Armstrong on WCW Pro and Terry Taylor on , using his shake, rattle, and roll clothesline finisher. Creative differences soon arose, as WCW officials, led by executive producer , pushed Honky toward jobbing to Badd to drop him lower on the card, a direction he resisted given his history of protecting his undefeated Intercontinental Champion image in WWF. Scheduled for a title match against Badd at on December 27, Honky demanded a guaranteed contract extension but was denied; he then refused to lose, walking out during his entrance music after declaring, "I’m the HTM MF’er," according to David Penzer. Bischoff fired him on the spot at the loading dock, later citing Honky's demanding attitude and subpar work as reasons for the abrupt end to his roughly four-month tenure. Reflecting on the stint in later interviews, Honky expressed frustration with WCW's disorganized environment and low pay compared to his WWF peak, stating he ended his friendship with over the unfulfilling booking and lack of creative input. He noted the promotion's favoritism toward newer talent overshadowed veterans like himself, leading to mismatched programs that never materialized into significant storylines.

Independent circuit resurgence (1995–1999)

Following his brief stint in in 1994, The Honky Tonk Man returned to the , where he experienced a resurgence in bookings across various regional promotions, leveraging his established persona as a nostalgic from his World Wrestling Federation days. In 1995, he competed prominently in the National Wrestling Conference (NWC), defeating on June 24 and facing high-profile opponents like and the returning Ultimate Warrior, to whom he lost in a singles match on July 22. These matches emphasized his guitar-wielding, character, drawing crowds through storytelling that highlighted his record-setting Intercontinental Championship reign, often positioning him as a veteran antagonist against up-and-coming or returning talents. By 1996, Honky Tonk Man aligned with the (AWF), where he engaged in a notable feud with fellow WWF alumnus , culminating in a victory over Ware on August 18 that showcased his signature Shake, Rattle & Roll finisher. This period marked increased activity in smaller federations, including one-off appearances and bouts that built on his of heel tactics, such as interfering with his guitar to secure wins or draw heat from audiences nostalgic for WWF programming. His NWC commitments continued into 1997, including a loss to Jake "The Snake" Roberts on May 24, further solidifying his role in events that blended veteran storytelling with younger competitors. The late 1990s saw Honky Tonk Man capture multiple championships in independent promotions, enhancing his legacy as a draw for regional shows. On April 23, 1999, he won the HWF Championship, holding it for 138 days until September 8, followed by the MEWF Championship on October 2, which he defended until November 13. These title reigns involved feuds with local talents, such as a match in World Pro Wrestling on September 1 alongside The Executioner against Roberts and Jerry Grey, and a singles loss to Michael Hayes in Super Stars of Wrestling on May 5. In Canada, he toured with promotions like ECCW and BCW, facing prospects like at BCW WrestleFest in 1998, using promos to reference his WWF accolades and create intergenerational rivalries. These engagements, including fan conventions where he performed his Elvis-inspired gimmick, positioned him as a bridge between eras leading into the Y2K wrestling boom.

WWF sporadic returns (1996–2001)

Following his departure from the WWF in 1991, The Honky Tonk Man made a sporadic return to the promotion in 1997 during the height of the , positioning himself as a manager to capitalize on his established persona amid the roster's shift toward more hardcore and rebellious characters. He was brought back to mentor , who had been rebranded as the pompadoured "Rockabilly" to evoke a similar Elvis-inspired gimmick, with the angle intended to refresh Gunn's singles push after his tag team success as part of the . The partnership debuted in early 1997, with Honky Tonk Man accompanying Rockabilly to matches and cutting promos emphasizing his role in grooming the next Intercontinental Champion, though the creative direction clashed with the era's edgier tone. The managerial stint quickly evolved into a short when Gunn his mentor, culminating in a pivotal on the October 4, 1997, episode of Raw is War. During a segment where pitched an alliance to , Gunn accepted by smashing a guitar over The Man's head, drawing on Honky's signature weapon to symbolize the end of their association and Gunn's rebirth as "Badd Ass" . This guitar attack marked the 's climax, lasting only a few weeks of televised confrontations before Honky exited the angle, highlighting the WWF's experimental repackaging efforts during roster transitions but ultimately failing to elevate Gunn's solo run at the time. The incident served as a nostalgic callback to Honky's tactics, contrasting the Attitude Era's violence while underscoring his role as a bridge between wrestling generations. In 1998, Honky Tonk Man made a one-off appearance in a multi-man on WWF programming, sharing the ring with and several others including , Kurrgan, and , as part of an undercard filler match that emphasized his enduring gimmick without advancing any storyline. He also participated in the 1998 on January 18, entering at #19 and being eliminated shortly thereafter by , lasting under two minutes in a nod to his legacy rather than a competitive push. Honky Tonk Man's final sporadic WWF appearance in this period came in 2001, again as a surprise entrant in the Royal Rumble on January 21, where he entered at #5, led the crowd in singing his entrance theme "Cool, Cocky, Bad," and was quickly eliminated by Kane via a chokeslam after attempting a guitar spot. This nostalgia-driven spot, lasting less than a minute, aligned with the WWF's Invasion storyline buildup but avoided deeper involvement, reflecting his utility as a quick crowd-pleaser during the promotion's expansion and character overhauls. He also appeared on an episode of WWF Heat that year in a brief squash match, teasing a short-lived alliance angle with midcard talent before fading from television once more.

Extended independent career (2000–2019)

Following his sporadic returns to the World Wrestling Federation (now ) in the late 1990s and early , The Honky Tonk Man maintained a steady presence on the independent circuit, securing regular bookings across various promotions in . He frequently appeared in (NWA) events, including a notable at NWA Wrestle Birmingham on November 19, 2010, where he competed against established competitors in multi-man bouts. These bookings extended to other indie groups such as (APW), Ultimate Championship Wrestling (UCW), and Big Time Wrestling (BTW), where he won the APW Universal Heavyweight Championship on August 26, 2000, defeating "Filthy" Frank Murdoch in a 42-day reign, and the UCW Heavyweight Championship for one day on March 24, 2000. Overseas tours further highlighted his extended career, with appearances in , particularly , as part of promotions like Preston City Wrestling (PCW) in 2016, where he engaged in matches against local talent in and . These international outings, combined with Canadian dates in promotions such as Canadian Wrestling Entertainment (CWE) and Steeltown Pro Wrestling (SPW), underscored his global appeal on the indie scene through the . In feuds blending nostalgia with fresh rivalries, he faced wrestling legends like and in tag and singles matches, while crossing paths with emerging stars such as and Dalton Castle during events like those in Great North Wrestling in 2010. Title defenses were sporadic but impactful, including retaining the UCW Tag Team Championship with partner from May 7 to October 22, 2009—a 168-day run—and defending the Mountain Empire Wrestling (MEW) Title via disqualification on June 11, 2016. Beyond the ring, The Honky Tonk Man cultivated his post-WWF persona through convention signings and media ventures, becoming a staple at events like WrestleReunion in in 2012, where he expressed enthusiasm for interacting with fans and sharing career anecdotes. He launched the "Shake Rattle & Roll" in 2011, hosting interviews with figures like and to discuss wrestling history and personal stories, which aired episodes through the decade and helped solidify his role as a vocal industry commentator. Key events in the included winning the BTW Heavyweight Championship on September 11, 2009, against Ryan Von Kool, and a series of multi-promotion appearances signaling a gradual shift toward semi-retirement, such as a announced farewell tour in 2013 amid reduced match frequency, though he continued select bouts into 2019.

WWE final matches and Hall of Fame induction (2008–2019)

In October 2008, The Honky Tonk Man returned to for a one-off match at Cyber Sunday, where fans voted him as the challenger for the Intercontinental Championship against champion . The bout, held on October 26 in , ended in a disqualification victory for Honky Tonk Man after just 1:06 when interfered on Marella's behalf. This appearance capitalized on Honky Tonk Man's legacy as the longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion, drawing 35% of the fan vote over alternatives like Goldust and . Following the Cyber Sunday event, Honky Tonk Man's WWE involvement shifted to non-competitive roles in 2009. On April 4, 2009, he served as the inductee for his former rival during the ceremony in Houston, Texas, highlighting their shared history in the promotion. This appearance marked one of his limited televised spots that year, emphasizing nostalgia without in-ring action. While no further WWE matches occurred, his extended work during this era provided context for occasional WWE nostalgia bookings like the 2008 event. On February 26, 2019, WWE announced The Honky Tonk Man as an inductee for the Hall of Fame Class of 2019, recognizing his record 454-day Intercontinental Championship reign from 1987 to 1988. The ceremony took place on April 6, 2019, at the in , New York, during weekend. Presented by fellow Hall of Famer , who delivered a brief introduction, Honky Tonk Man entered to his signature theme in a pink Cadillac, eliciting strong crowd support. During his acceptance speech, Honky Tonk Man expressed gratitude to and , describing the honor as an unexpected dream come true. He recounted the origins of his rock 'n' roll Elvis-inspired gimmick, crediting a song for the idea and for recommending him to , which launched his career. The speech underscored the lasting impact of entertainment, as he noted, " is the greatest show on Earth, and it will always be." Family played a poignant role, with Honky Tonk Man mentioning his daughter, a veterinary student in her final year, who humorously advised him to lose weight for the event. The audience interrupted with sustained "You deserve it" chants, leaving him momentarily speechless and emotional. To cap the moment, he performed a rendition of his entrance theme "Honky Tonk Man," energizing the crowd and reinforcing his legacy as a charismatic midcard icon. No formal retirement was declared, though the induction symbolized a capstone to his in-ring contributions.

Post-retirement appearances (2020–present)

Following his 2019 induction into the , The Honky Tonk Man signed a multi-year legends contract with , enabling him to participate in autograph signings, promotional cameos, and special appearances while retaining the rights to his persona for merchandise and media opportunities. This agreement, renewed for a third consecutive term in April 2025, has allowed him to make sporadic on-camera cameos, including virtual and in-person events tied to programming. In addition to WWE commitments, The Honky Tonk Man has maintained an active presence at independent wrestling conventions and fan expos throughout 2020–2025. Notable appearances include the Retro X event in , on June 20–21, 2025, where he conducted interviews and signed autographs, discussing his career highlights with local media. He also attended WrestleCade 2025 in , from November 28–30, performing meet-and-greets and participating in panel discussions on wrestling . Other engagements encompassed the Celebrity Comic Con on September 20–21, 2025, and Columbus from December 5–7, 2025, focusing on fan interactions and memorabilia sales. On the independent circuit, he returned to the ring for select exhibition matches, such as a pre-show bout against at Mayhem 2025 in on October 31, 2025, emphasizing nostalgic rivalries from his WWF tenure. has played a key role in his post-retirement visibility, with collaborations like a joint post with fellow alumnus on November 6, 2025, reminiscing about dynamics and shared career moments. An earlier May 2025 exchange further highlighted their camaraderie through shared photos from convention meetups. Beyond in-ring and fan events, The Honky Tonk Man has engaged in non-wrestling roles, providing guest commentary for wrestling podcasts and channels, including a March 2025 exclusive on Wrestling Real Talk where he analyzed modern storylines. He has also promoted official merchandise lines, such as Shop apparel and Pro Wrestling Tees collections featuring his iconic guitar motif, with sales boosted through legends contract tie-ins up to 2025.

Other media

Film and television roles

The Honky Tonk Man, whose real name is Roy Wayne Farris, has made occasional appearances in television outside his primary wrestling career, often leveraging his flamboyant Elvis-inspired persona in non-scripted formats. In 2010, he served as a on the syndicated daytime Judge Jeanine Pirro, testifying in a case involving a dispute over wrestling memorabilia; the episode aired on and featured Farris in character, complete with his signature guitar prop. Farris has also provided commentary and archival footage cameos in several wrestling-focused documentaries and reality-style specials through the 2010s, including The Self Destruction of the Ultimate Warrior (1996), where he discussed his famous Intercontinental Championship rivalry, and Macho Madness: The Randy Savage Ultimate Collection (2009), highlighting his interactions with . These appearances emphasized his role as a colorful in 1980s , drawing on his on-screen for narrative depth.

Video game portrayals

The Honky Tonk Man made his debut in professional wrestling video games with , a title released in 1987 for platforms including Commodore 64 and Atari ST, where he was portrayed as a playable wrestler in matchup scenarios against opponents like "Macho Man" . This early appearance emphasized his in-ring style through text-based and basic graphical simulations typical of the era's sports games. In 1989, he featured prominently in Activision's WWF WrestleMania for the (NES), serving as one of six selectable playable characters alongside , , "Macho Man" , , and .) His moveset included standard punches, kicks, elbow drops, and grapples, with a distinctive guitar-shaped representing his special attack, alluding to his real-life signature guitar shot without a fully animated prop weapon due to hardware limitations. The game also incorporated his rock 'n' roll persona through entrance animations and theme music cues. Subsequent NES titles expanded his presence, including (1992), where he remained a playable character with an updated moveset featuring enhanced aerial attacks like the diving fist drop and improved grappling, reflecting his Championship-era heel tactics. He also appeared in the 1989 arcade game , teaming with tag partners like in tag-team modes, with his portrayal focusing on quick strikes and his signature swagger in 2D sprite form. After a period of limited inclusions in the and early , The Honky Tonk Man returned as a (DLC) character in (2011) for consoles including and , available for free to early adopters and featuring his finishing move "El Kabong," a direct guitar shot animation that stunned opponents. This arcade-style fighter highlighted his exaggerated Elvis-inspired flair in versus modes against modern stars. He was also playable in (2009) for and , integrated into legend vs. icon storylines with a moveset emphasizing his "Shake, Rattle & Roll" piledriver and guitar-based taunts. In the WWE 2K series, The Honky Tonk Man has been a recurring legend character since (2014), appearing in subsequent entries up to (2018), with overall ratings typically in the 78-80 range to reflect his mid-card status and technical prowess. His moveset consistently includes signature maneuvers like the "Shake, Rattle & Roll" (a swinging ), delayed drops, and the guitar shot as a paydirt-style finisher, often paired with as a manager in entrances. Post-2010 releases like WWE 2K24 (2024) added him via DLC packs, updating his model for improved animations and including nostalgic attire from his 1987-1988 title run. He also appears in WWE 2K25 (2025) as a legend character with an overall rating of 81. These portrayals have allowed fans to recreate his record-breaking Intercontinental Championship reign in universe modes and exhibition matches.

Personal life

Early life and family background

Roy Wayne Farris, better known by his The Honky Tonk Man, was born on January 25, 1953, in . He was raised in the Memphis area, immersing himself in the regional culture that would later influence his career path. Farris comes from a family with deep ties to . He is a first to Jerry "The King" Lawler, a prominent wrestler and commentator, though their relationship has been strained at times due to . Before entering professional wrestling, Farris pursued education and worked in teaching roles. He graduated from the in 1975 with a degree in education and was involved in the university's team. Following graduation, he served as a high school teacher and football coach, and later taught elementary school, experiences that honed his physical conditioning and skills prior to his wrestling training. From a young age, Farris drew inspiration from cultural icons like , whose rock 'n' roll style and charisma would eventually shape his flamboyant wrestling gimmick as The Honky Tonk Man. Although Farris was not initially an avid Elvis fan, the singer's influence became evident in his persona development, incorporating elements like sideburns and a guitar prop that echoed Presley's stage presence.

Later personal developments

Farris was first married to Judy Lynn Nuckolls from 1975 to 1980. He has been married to his Tammy since 1984 and is the father of two children: a son named Roy (born August 25, 1985), and a daughter named Megan (born November 24, 1992). During the , Farris experienced health challenges stemming from his extensive wrestling career, including lingering effects from a severe finger injury sustained in 2008 during an independent show angle involving a guitar, which required 18 stitches and nearly resulted in ; he has since recovered sufficiently to maintain an active lifestyle with occasional wrestling appearances. In his post-wrestling pursuits, Farris has engaged in business ventures such as frequent participation in autograph signings and fan conventions, including WrestleCade (November 28–30, 2025) and in recent years, where he interacts with fans and signs memorabilia. He resides in the Phoenix area of . In April 2025, Farris signed a new multi-year Legends contract, continuing his role as a WWE ambassador. Farris has contributed to community involvement through , notably participating in charity wrestling events, such as the Alabama Wrestling Federation show benefiting local causes in , and supporting similar initiatives in subsequent years.

Championships and accomplishments

Major championships

The Honky Tonk Man's most notable championship accomplishment came in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), where he captured the WWF Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship on June 2, 1987, by defeating with interference from his manager . This reign lasted 454 days until August 29, 1988, when he lost the title to at in a match that ended his record-setting run; at the time, it was the longest reign in WWF history, spanning over 14 months and involving defenses against prominent challengers such as , , and , often via disqualifications to prolong his tenure. This remained the longest until surpassed it with a 666-day reign from 2022 to 2024. The length of this reign established him as a dominant midcard and influenced future booking strategies for the title. Prior to his WWF success, Farris, performing as Honky Tonk Wayne, won the Stampede North American Heavyweight Championship on June 20, 1986, by defeating Bad News Allen () in , . This singles title reign lasted 70 days until the championship was vacated upon his departure for the WWF in August 1986, marking a key achievement in his Canadian territory career during the mid-1980s; while sources indicate a single reign, it highlighted his rising status as a main event talent in , where he also held the International Championship three times earlier that decade alongside partners and The Cuban Assassin. In regional promotions affiliated with the (USWA) and its predecessor, the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA), Farris secured several titles as part of the Blond Bombers tag team with Latham, including the on June 15, 1979, for a 101-day reign, and the Tag Team Championship multiple times in 1979–1980. Later independent runs yielded additional hardware, such as the (ICW) World Heavyweight Championship once in the early 1980s and various short-term singles titles like the NWA Alabama Heavyweight Championship, though these were shorter and less prominent compared to his WWF milestone. His defenses across these promotions emphasized his guitar-wielding heel persona, often involving controversial finishes to retain belts and build ongoing feuds.

Awards and honors

The Honky Tonk Man was inducted into the in 2019 as an individual honoree, recognizing his contributions to , particularly his record-setting tenure as Intercontinental Champion. The ceremony took place on April 6, 2019, in , New York, where he was introduced by his former manager and received resounding "You deserve it" chants from the audience. In 1987, during the peak of his WWF career, The Honky Tonk Man earned recognition from Pro Wrestling Illustrated's reader-voted Achievement Awards, winning Most Improved Wrestler of the Year for his rapid rise as a top . He also placed third in the Most Hated Wrestler category that year, reflecting his effective portrayal of a cocky, Elvis-inspired . The Honky Tonk Man received the Men's Wrestling (Retired) Award from the in 2011, an honor presented to active and retired wrestlers for their impact on the industry. This accolade highlighted his enduring legacy beyond the ring, including his post-retirement appearances and influence on wrestling entertainment.

References

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  10. https://www.thesportster.com/jerry-the-king-lawler-age-height-wives-health-issues-facts-trivia-wwe-awa-memphis/
  11. https://gerweck.net/2009/10/22/the-honky-tonk-man/
  12. https://www.sungazette.com/sports/local-sports/2016/02/honky-tonk-man-part-of-show-to-visit-area-in-march/
  13. https://slamwrestling.net/interviews/the-honkytonk-man-bares-all/
  14. https://411mania.com/wrestling/shooting-from-the-hip-the-honky-tonk-man-rf-shoot-interview/
  15. https://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profile/honky-tonk-man/
  16. https://www.kayfabememories.com/Regions/memphis/memphis-cwa8-2.htm
  17. https://www.al.com/entertainment/2015/05/honky_tonk_man_to_shake_rattle.html
  18. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKcL6S29DdU
  19. https://www.thesportster.com/wwe-legend-honky-tonk-man-facts-trivia-details/
  20. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=156&page=11
  21. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=109384
  22. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=109381
  23. https://www.wwe.com/videos/the-honky-tonk-man-makes-his-wwe-debut-wrestling-challenge-september-28-1986
  24. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITrt-bHStVg
  25. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9emscHtha8g
  26. https://prowrestling.fandom.com/wiki/The_Honky_Tonk_Man
  27. https://www.wwe.com/videos/jake-the-snake-vs-the-honky-tonk-man-from-wrestlemania-iii
  28. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=18153
  29. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oB2QVx5tGCg
  30. https://www.thesmackdownhotel.com/events-results/ppv-special/wwf-king-of-the-ring-1987
  31. https://www.blogofdoom.com/2016/05/17/wwf-wrestling-challenge-july-3rd-1988/
  32. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=16
  33. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0L6fByVs3jM
  34. https://www.wrestlingdata.com/index.php?befehl=matchlisten&wrestler=295&jahr=1987
  35. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzFO0UCyZbw
  36. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=1756
  37. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=111&nr=18158
  38. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzmWjqzOtfk
  39. https://www.wwe.com/videos/the-honky-tonk-man-vs-the-ultimate-warrior-intercontinental-championship-match-summerslam
  40. https://prowrestlingstories.com/pro-wrestling-stories/honky-tonk-man-greg-valentine-rhythm-and-blues/
  41. https://www.wwe.com/videos/rhythm-blues-make-their-wwe-debut-wwe-superstar-march-10-1990
  42. https://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profile/rhythem-blues/
  43. https://www.mandatory.com/wrestlezone/news/1096769-greg-valentne-on-rhythm-blues-tag-team-with-honky-tonk-man-why-it-ended
  44. https://slamwrestling.net/archive/herb-abrams-bio-as-wild-as-you-thought/
  45. http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/indy/uwf/uwfcards.html
  46. https://www.wrestlingdata.com/index.php?befehl=bios&wrestler=295&bild=1&details=7
  47. https://wwfoldschool.com/uswa-united-states-wrestling-association-1993/
  48. https://www.wrestlingdata.com/index.php?befehl=bios&wrestler=52&bild=3&details=7&liga=165&jahr=1993&seite=6
  49. https://www.reddit.com/r/SquaredCircle/comments/5ndbu1/wrestling_observer_rewind_aug_14_1994/
  50. https://www.facebook.com/BookProWrestlers/posts/smoky-mountain-wrestling-august-13-1994before-the-fans-packed-the-bleachersbefor/1139685168203834/
  51. https://www.thesportster.com/honky-tonk-man-short-lived-run-wcw-explained/
  52. https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1080522/remembering-the-honky-tonk-mans-short-run-in-wcw/
  53. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=156&page=4
  54. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=1606
  55. https://www.cagesideseats.com/wwe/2024/12/29/24331355/honky-tonk-man-refuses-to-lose-quits-wcw-starrcade-eric-bischoff-johnny-b-badd-david-penzer
  56. http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/indy/nwc/nwccards.html
  57. https://www.wrestlingdata.com/index.php?befehl=bios&wrestler=295&bild=1&details=7&kampfland=5&jahr=1999
  58. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21QqWkDNljw
  59. https://www.thesportster.com/new-age-outlaws-things-know-about-road-dogg-billy-gunn-careers-1990s/
  60. https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2012/04/honky-tonk-man-talks-changes-in-wwe-551443/
  61. http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/honky-tonk-man-73.html?year=1998
  62. http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/honky-tonk-man-73.html?year=2001
  63. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2280836-full-career-retrospective-and-greatest-moments-for
  64. https://slamwrestling.net/interviews/honky-tonk-man-a-fan-of-convention-circuit/
  65. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/honky-tonk-man-shake-rattle-roll/id443706115
  66. https://www.wrestlingnewssource.com/news/31314/Honky-Tonk-Man-Retiring-From-Wrestling/
  67. https://www.wwe.com/shows/cybersunday/2008/8258380
  68. https://www.wwe.com/videos/santino-marella-vs-honky-tonk-man-cyber-sunday-2008-intercontinental-championship-match
  69. https://thehistoryofwwe.com/wwe-results-2009/
  70. https://411mania.com/wrestling/411s-wwe-hall-of-hall-ceremony-report/
  71. https://www.cultaholic.com/posts/honky-tonk-man-signs-wwe-legends-deal
  72. https://www.ringsidenews.com/honky-tonk-man-locks-new-wwe-legends-deal/
  73. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qD4_DVqJMmU
  74. https://www.facebook.com/WrestleCade/posts/wwe-hall-of-fame-superstar-honky-tonk-man-is-coming-to-wrestlecade-2025-in-winst/1436282397863816/
  75. https://www.instagram.com/p/DIuodiGNnEc/
  76. https://www.facebook.com/GalaxyConColumbus/photos/meet-the-honky-tonk-man-at-galaxycon-columbus-httpsgalaxyconinfoticketscmh-join-/1328519405310693/
  77. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OC9ydIYi1Tk
  78. https://www.instagram.com/biglpwrestling/p/DQuyalDD66S/
  79. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJtnNw2RLnv/
  80. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kp0HZUFG0m8
  81. https://shop.wwe.com/en/the-honky-tonk-man/t-3467416091%2Bz-989682-3681345828
  82. https://www.prowrestlingtees.com/wrestler-t-shirts/honky-tonk-man.html
  83. https://prowrestling.net/artman/publish/miscnews/article10014573.shtml
  84. https://www.wrestlezone.com/news/173699-video-honky-tonk-man-appears-on-daytime-court-show
  85. https://www.thesmackdownhotel.com/games/microleague-wrestling
  86. https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/c64/926715-microleague-wrestling/data
  87. http://www.americanwargamersassociation.com/2017/04/wwf-wrestlemania-nes-review.html
  88. https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/nes/563480-wwf-wrestlemania/faqs/24116
  89. https://www.thesportster.com/every-wwe-video-game-golden-era-ranked/
  90. https://www.operationsports.com/the-arcade-wrestling-games-of-my-childhood-wwf-superstars-and-wwf-wrestlefest/
  91. https://www.al.com/techcetera/2011/04/honky_tonk_man_wrestles_for_ne.html
  92. https://www.giantbomb.com/honky-tonk-man/3005-3166/games/
  93. https://www.thesmackdownhotel.com/wwe2k15/roster/honky-tonk-man
  94. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RaJXWoNQGL8
  95. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1SJF-453qA
  96. https://www.thesmackdownhotel.com/roster/wwe2k25/honky-tonk-man
  97. https://www.thesmackdownhotel.com/wwe2k16/roster/the-honky-tonk-man
  98. http://www.oklafan.com/interviews/view/5475/
  99. https://sportshistorynetwork.com/wrestling/honky-tonk-man/
  100. https://www.whosdatedwho.com/dating/wayne-farris
  101. https://411mania.com/wrestling/various-news-the-honky-tonk-man-almost-loses-a-finger-sabu-to-return/
  102. https://www.simpletix.com/e/wwe-hall-of-fame-superstar-honky-tonk-man-tickets-242185
  103. https://www.rostercon.com/en/people/wayne-farris-the-honky-tonk-man-en
  104. https://www.postwrestling.com/2025/04/12/honky-tonk-man-signs-new-multi-year-wwe-legends-contract/
  105. https://www.al.com/entertainment/2015/05/the_honky_tonk_man_alabama_wre.html
  106. https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/the-honky-tonk-man-to-be-second-inductee-into-wwe-hall-of-fame-class-of-2019/
  107. https://pwi-online.com/awards/
  108. https://www.caulifloweralleyclub.org/awards
  109. https://slamwrestling.net/news/honky-tonk-man-steals-show-from-cac-headliners/
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