Celebrating the Impact of HBCU Graduates in Professional Wrestling
A variety of incredible performers began their professional wrestling careers at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), who gave the craft this significant boost. These are the institutions that have birthed some of the best and most influential professional wrestling legends of all time.
Grambling State University Ernie “Big Cat” Ladd: The epitome of all talk, Ladd was both a pro wrestler in the PPW territory and an NFL football star proving Grambling State the top athletic programs in America were born.
Spelman College Queen Sharmel: The spirit of a HBCU’S top woman made evident, Sharmel has brought might and style to the wrestling ring as one of the most prestigious women HBCU.
Savannah State University Ernest “The Cat” Miller: After playing a bit of martial arts, Miller added charisma to professional wrestling.
FSU (Fayetteville State University) Junkyard Dog: One of the greatest figures in wrestling history, JYD was an early pioneer and one of those who broke the color barrier in professional wrestling.
Mia Yim/Michin (Virginia Union University alumna) in her current WWE role, displaying her distinctive in-ring style.
Trick Williams (Hampton University graduate), representing the new generation of HBCU talent in WWE/NXT.
More than just raw athletic talent, these men and women exemplify excellence and access that only an HBCU can provide. Their stories, along with countless others have set the stage for future athletes and entertainers aspiring to follow similar paths, further proving that HBCUs are the life blood of Professional Wrestling & Beyond talent.
Even some of the most obvious connections, like general HBCU-wrestling bona fides andhetto-r0ck flames, are not actually true. This is why we have so many talented performers coming out of these institutions that help shape the industry.
Education and sports tell us abilities can be as one, opening pathways of unprecedented growth inside and outside of the ring. These students who have gone to HBCUs have done more than just entertained millions, they have broken down walls and inspired generations to work towards their dream whether it be in pro wrestling or on other fields.