Larry Winters was a renowned American professional wrestler and trainer who made a lasting impact on the independent circuit during the 1980s and 1990s. His illustrious career took him to various prominent promotions, including the American Wrestling Association, National Wrestling Alliance, National Wrestling Federation, Pro Wrestling USA, and World Wrestling Council.
Throughout his career, Winters was involved in several notable feuds and accomplishments. One of his most notable rivalries was with D.C. Drake, which garnered national attention in the wrestling world. This intense feud showcased early examples of modern "hardcore wrestling" and was praised by Bill Apter, who wrote that it would forever change the landscape of professional wrestling.
Winters was also a key figure in the Tri-State Wrestling Alliance, where he and his tag team partner Johnny Hotbody, as 'The Dog Pound', became the first TWA Tag Team Champions. His success in TWA led to him being one of the many former wrestlers brought into Eastern Championship Wrestling by Tod Gordon.
In ECW, Winters teamed up with his former rival Tony Stetson, and the two had a intense feud with The Super Destroyers and The Suicide Blondes over the ECW Tag Team Championship. However, their partnership eventually turned sour, and they turned on each other.
Larry Winters is also credited with training several future ECW stars, including Don E. Allen, Glen Osbourne, and The Sandman. His influence on the wrestling world extended beyond his own in-ring accomplishments, as he played a significant role in shaping the careers of many notable wrestlers.
Sadly, Winters passed away on January 27, 2015, due to a heart attack, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of professional wrestling.
