The legacy of any championship is as much defined by its first recipient as its latest. In 1975, the great Harley Race became the first man to hold the National Wrestling Alliance's United States Championship. A former heavyweight champion, there was no denying the legitimacy he brought to the gold. Well-respected by industry insiders, management and wrestlers alike, Race was an exemplary champion and just the type of credible competitor needed to successfully launch the title. The title did as much for Race as he did for it, though. A former heavyweight champion hell-bent on regaining the title he carried with dignity and grace, the St. Louis native remained in contention for the big gold belt during his title as the U.S. champion. By carrying that title, he remained the top contender to the ultimate prize in the industry. Race would hold the title for 183 days before dropping it to Johnny Valentine.
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.
