Episode Details

Episode 13 explores four wrestlers who each broughtsomething unique to the Northwest — from youthful fire, to rugged toughness, to historic greatness, to heartfelt family legacy. Together, they represent four decades of the Portland Wrestling story.

Host Frank Culbertson spotlights:

🔥 Ricky Santana — the high-energy spark who helped revive the territory in the late ’80s, capturing multiple tag titles and the Northwest Heavyweight Championship before becoming a major star in Puerto Rico and working behind the scenes for WCW and WWE.

💼 Ron Starr — the tough-as-nails journeyman who debuted in Portland by beating Buddy Rose and quickly became one of the territory’s top heels. A former NWA World JuniorHeavyweight Champion whose intensity made every match feel real.

🏆 Luther Lindsay — one of the greatest wrestlers ever to appear in the Northwest. A multi-time NW champion, respected by Stu Hart, admired by Lou Thesz, and ultimately honored in WWE’s Hall of Fame (Legacy Wing). A true pioneer whose influence still echoes today.

👢 Kenny Mayne — the father of Lonnie Mayne, whose emotional 1970 return at age 55 — stepping into the ring beside his son — remains one of the most heartfelt chapters inPortland Wrestling history.

These men weren’t always the megastars — but they were the fan favorites and fierce rivals who defined an era.

Based on The Encyclopedia of Portland Wrestlers by historian Mike Rodgers, available now on Amazon.
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