Mary Lillian Ellison, professionally known as The Fabulous Moolah, was a renowned American professional wrestler, whose illustrious career spanned decades. She began her journey in the world of wrestling, working alongside prominent figures such as Billy Wolfe, his wife Mildred Burke, and the legendary "Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers.
Ellison's impressive career was marked by numerous accolades, including winning the NWA World Women's Championship in 1956. She went on to hold the title for approximately three decades, solidifying her position as the most prominent champion in the women's division.
In the 1980s, Ellison joined the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, later WWE),becoming an integral part of the Rock 'n' Wrestling Connection storyline. She engaged in a series of feuds with notable opponents, including Cyndi Lauper and Wendi Richter, the latter of whom ultimately defeated her for the WWF Women's Championship in 1984.
Despite this setback, Ellison continued to thrive, and her remarkable achievements earned her the distinction of holding the record for the longest title reign by any athlete in any professional sport. According to WWE, she was also the first WWF Women's Champion, holding the title a total of four times.
In addition to her impressive wrestling career, Ellison was a respected trainer and promoter in the women's professional wrestling circuit. In the 1990s, she made a triumphant return to the WWF, this time in a comedic role alongside her longtime friend Mae Young.
Ellison's remarkable legacy continued to grow, as she became the first woman to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 1995. She went on to achieve another milestone, becoming the oldest champion in the history of professional wrestling when she won the WWF Women's Championship at the age of 76 in 1999.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the world of professional wrestling, WWE ranked her as the 27th best wrestler ever in 2010, a testament to her enduring impact on the sport.
