8 Important Wrestling Events That Happened When Great Balls Of Fire Was Released

8. Dick Hutton Wins NWA World Heavyweight Championship

Before Brock Lesnar and Kurt Angle, there was Dick Hutton.

A three-time NCAA champion, the Oklahoma State powerhouse represented the U.S. in the 1948 Olympics. After tearing up the collegiate scene, Hutton transitioned to the professional circuit, training under pioneer Ed 'Strangler' Lewis. With his brute strength and unbelievable speed, Hutton turned back the challenges of local yokels, offering fans a dollar for every minute that they lasted, and a grand if they won. Nobody ever took home $1,000 as Hutton usually disposed of his opponents in 15 seconds.

On 14 November, Hutton upset real-life friend Lou Thesz in Toronto for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. He remained undefeated for nearly two more years until Pat O’Connor ended his title reign.