Blackjack Mulligan was one of the most iconic wrestlers of his time. Known for his impressive physique, trademark cowboy hat, and incredible in-ring skills, he was a fan favorite and a legend in the world of professional wrestling.
However, despite his immense popularity and success, Blackjack Mulligan’s life was not without its struggles. In this article, we will take a closer look at what happened to Blackjack Mulligan the wrestler and explore some of the key events that shaped his career.
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Early Life and Career
Born Robert Windham in Sweetwater, Texas on November 25th, 1942, Blackjack Mulligan grew up with a passion for sports. He played football at Odessa High School before pursuing a career in professional wrestling.
Mulligan made his debut in 1967 and quickly established himself as one of the most talented wrestlers on the circuit. He won numerous championships throughout his career, including multiple tag team titles with partners such as Ric Flair and Greg Valentine.
In addition to his success in the ring, Mulligan was also known for his larger-than-life personality and unique charisma. He became a fan favorite thanks to his cowboy persona and rugged good looks.
Legal Troubles
Despite his many successes as a wrestler, Blackjack Mulligan’s life was not without its challenges. In 1987, he was arrested alongside fellow wrestler John Studd on charges of counterfeiting. The two men were accused of printing fake $20 bills at Studd’s home in Maryland.
Both men ultimately pled guilty to the charges and were sentenced to probation. However, their legal troubles had lasting consequences for their careers; Mulligan was forced to retire from wrestling due to injuries sustained during a prison riot while serving out his sentence.
Health Issues
In addition to legal troubles, Blackjack Mulligan also struggled with various health issues throughout his life. In particular, he suffered from heart problems that eventually forced him into retirement from wrestling.
Mulligan underwent several surgeries to address his heart issues and was eventually fitted with a pacemaker. However, his health continued to deteriorate, and he passed away on April 7th, 2016 at the age of 73.
Legacy
Despite the challenges he faced both in and out of the ring, Blackjack Mulligan remains an iconic figure in the world of professional wrestling. His larger-than-life persona and incredible talent continue to inspire fans of all ages.
In addition to his many accomplishments as a wrestler, Mulligan also left behind a family legacy in the industry. His sons Barry and Kendall Windham both became successful wrestlers in their own right, continuing their father’s legacy for future generations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Blackjack Mulligan was a true legend in the world of professional wrestling. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his life, he remained dedicated to his craft and inspired fans with his incredible talent and charisma.
While he may no longer be with us, Mulligan’s impact on the industry will continue to be felt for years to come. As we look back on his life and career, we can’t help but feel grateful for all that he gave us as a performer and as a human being.
