For eight years, fans attended MSG to watch WWE champion Bruno Sammartino defend his title against all of the top contenders in Vincent J. McMahon's promotion. He was a cultural hero to the Italian population in New York City and a larger-than-life persona to everyone else. He had earned the nickname of "The Living Legend" thanks to his success and popularity. On January 18, 1971, Sammartino entered the arena prepared for yet another successful defense of the championship. His opponent on this night? Ivan Koloff, an evil foreigner villain, the likes of which the champion had beaten countless times before. It should have been a routine victory. Instead, Koloff shocked the world by pinning Sammartino's shoulders to the mat and winning his one and only world title. Fans sat in stunned silence, then allowed their emotions to get the best of them. Tears openly flowed as a dejected Bruno limped to the back, his surprise and dismay greater than that of the fans. For the first time, the superhero that had represented the people had lost a marquee match and brought an end to the most impressive heavyweight title reign ever.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
