Do wrestlers get final issue stories?

[Jason California]

Or do they just disappear?

I have never watched it consistently enough to know if or how often wrestlers are able to close out their careers with a finale.

There are enough that just wont quit like Hogan, and then some go into management, but what happened to Junkyard Dog (I know he is dead now), he Iron Shiek, Hacksaw Jim Dugan, Coco beware, and others? How is that stuff handled in the pro wrestling universe?

[Kirblar]

HBK may be the only one to actually do it.

[SteveFlack]

Usually, they just die.

Seriously.

[jamestolliver]

Yeah, a lot of times I think they do get final matches nowadays. I know HBK did and so did Ric Flair with WWE. Sometimes they market these as retirement matches and whoever loses has to retire!

[Jason California]

I dont know who HBK is.

[David Aspmo]

I dont know who HBK is.
Shawn Michaels. HBK stands for his nickname, "Heartbreak Kid" (HBK makes for a more convenient chant).

As has been said, he may be unique because it sounds like he may actually be able to stay retired. Most wrestlers just can't stay away from the ring - either because they're too addicted to the attention or they can't manage their money well enough or both.

Ric Flair, for instance, did a huge storyline a few years ago that culminated with his "retirement", but he was back wrestling within, like, a year.

But to answer your original question, yes, it does happen if the wrestler has achieved a high enough status in the industry that such a storyline is thought to be compelling to people. Generally, the storyline ends with them losing the last match and symbolically passing the torch to whoever beat them (ideally, the winner has a similar type of character or niche in the industry).

Most of the guys you listed weren't main-event level performers, and guys at that lower level tend to just kind of fade away after the audience loses interest in their character/gimmick. Usually, they just go back to working in smaller promotions and get by on their nostalgia appeal (especially after they've gotten too old to perform at a proper level).

Also, as you said, a lot of them go into managerial or other behind-the-scenes positions. Some will become trainers for younger, aspiring wrestlers.

And, yeah, a lot of them die at a relatively young age. They put their bodies through a lot of strain. Like any athlete, there's general wear and tear. Beyond that, though, they are stunt performers, so they can often bang themselves up a lot more than the average athlete. And, of course, the steroids and such can take an even greater toll. Plus, a lot of them abuse other drugs, as well.

It's not a particularly healthy profession.

[Brad N.]

Already answered, but in some cases there have been 'funeral for a friend' type episodes of Raw. When Brian Pillman, Owen Hart, and Eddie Guerrero died while under contract the next episode of Raw was dedicated to their memory. The Owen Hart memorial was still one of the most memorable and truly touching shows I've ever seen, because it was as real as it gets. Forgetting for a moment it's wrestling, the wrestlers mostly broke character for two hours and allowed their real personalities to come out. That show opened with all of the Raw superstars on the top of the ramp while the ring bell tolled. Men and women all larger than life bawling their eyes out, hugging, praying, etc. Then you had little pre-taped stories from a bunch of the performers between matches telling their favorite stories about Hart and his life. As for the matches, there were no storylines or titles, just some of the best wrestlers putting on top quality matches with each other for the sheer sport of it. As horrible and tragic as that was Ric Flair (and others) were quoted as saying they could only dream of a tribute like that and being remembered so fondly when they're gone.

But yeah, usually a wrestler dies at a young age or just go off into obscurity. Bret Hart once said that wrestlers were like circus animals and once they outlived their usefulness they were simply taken out back and shot. He wasn't far off.

[Kurt Russell Crowe]

Some guys like Hacksaw and Piper get moved into a category of legends, and WWE even has a Legend contract with a lot of guys to use for toys and video games and occasional nostalgia appearances on tv. And some guys will go to conventions and do indies on a sort of legend basis, not really being involved in anything but maybe putting over in a promo the company/top guy or guys and maybe punching a heel. That way they can still make a buck here and there without being too ridiculous. Also, the Hall of Fame being televised annually now as part of the WWE's biggest weekend is a cap for a lot of guys. Ricky Steamboat recently had a final story of coming back for a couple matches after being inducted into the hall of fame to fight the top heel who was ragging on and attacking various legends.

[Jason California]

I did not know Eddie Guerrero was dead.

[Brad N.]

I did not know Eddie Guerrero was dead.

Yup, died right here in Mpls. same as Brian Pillman back in 2005 IIRC. My state is cursed. Owen still saddens me, but Eddie was by far the biggest blow to the company (unless you count the greater media impact Benoit's had) when he died. His tribute show had his lowrider up at the top of the ramp and something about that car sitting there empty like that really hit me. I bet Youtube has clips from that episode of Smackdown.

[Michael-Deery]

It also depends on the possiblity of getting more matches out of them. Rock has never had a "final issue," his last match was a 2 on 3 handicapmatch at Wrestlemania 20. He wasn't even a big part of the storyline.

Austin, a guy who has managed to stay retired never had a final match either. He wrestled the Rock and the next night was forced to retire by Eric Biscoff. In fact only Austin, Rock, Vince and JR were even aware that was his last match.

[Damian696]

and sometimes wretlers that leave a company get a final storyline, like a loser-leaves-company match, or a I-quit storyline, like Batista - even Vickie got one when she left for a while. :D

and not to forget the nice sendoff Bret Hart got when he left for WCW. :twisted:

[Jason California]

What happened to Goldberg?

[Damian696]

and sometimes wretlers that leave a company get a final storyline, like a loser-leaves-company match, or a I-quit storyline, like Batista - even Vickie got one when she left for a while. :D

and not to forget the nice sendoff Bret Hart got when he left for WCW. :twisted:

oh, and since he just came back: Paul Bearer got a nice sendoff, too. :D

[Damian696]

What happened to Goldberg?

he had his final WWE match in 2004 at Wreltemania XX. funny thing was that a lot of the people knew it would be both his and his opponent's (Brock Lesnar) last match. :D I don't think he has wrestled since.

rumors of a comeback fload around the net from time to time, but it doesn't look like he wants to be back in wrestling.

[Jason California]

he had his final WWE match in 2004 at Wreltemania XX. funny thing was that a lot of the people knew it would be both his and his opponent's (Brock Lesnar) last match. :D I don't think he has wrestled since.

rumors of a comeback fload around the net from time to time, but it doesn't look like he wants to be back in wrestling.


I just saw that fight. Did Goldberg or Lesnar ever get any vengeance on Austin for that?

[Damian696]

I just saw that fight. Did Goldberg or Lesnar ever get any vengeance on Austin for that?

since both of them never returned to WWE, no.

[Foolish Mortal]

I just saw that fight. Did Goldberg or Lesnar ever get any vengeance on Austin for that?


since both of them never returned to WWE, no.

Yes, Lesnar left to start a career in MMA.

It's kinda hilarious that they're last appearances in WWE is often regarded as one of the worst matches in WrestleMania history. :lol:

[Patrick J]

Yes, Lesnar left to start a career in MMA.

It's kinda hilarious that they're last appearances in WWE is often regarded as one of the worst matches in WrestleMania history. :lol:

Lesnar left to start a career in the NFL. When that didn't work out he returned to Pro-Wrestling (in Japan) and then started his career in MMA.

[Foolish Mortal]

Lesnar left to start a career in the NFL. When that didn't work out he returned to Pro-Wrestling (in Japan) and then started his career in MMA.

Yeah, I forgot about that stuff he did in between, thanks.

[Patrick J]

Yeah, I forgot about that stuff he did in between, thanks.

I often wonder if there was anybody that actually purchased the 'Lesnar #69' Jersey's they were selling on the Minnesota Vikings website before he even debuted in Pre-Season only to wind up getting cut. I'm not sure if he was even invited to play on the teams' practice squad.

[Jamie Coville]

yeah, most wrestlers just end up doing indy shows and convention appearances until they can't do it anymore (or can only do convention appearances). Usually their last TV match is pretty forgettable and it takes a real wrestling trivia nerd to point out it was their last match.

A few end up in office jobs with the big federations, some start their indy promotions, some start their own wrestling schools or join one to become a trainer. A few end up doing security guard type jobs or working in a gym (either as an employee or fitness trainer). If they are lucky they'll have saved up so they can own a gym and do well with it. Others are smart with their money and invest while they've got it (Big Van Vader invested into real estate). Occasionally they'll be able to settle down to a nice, steady normal job, like Tito Santana who became a phys ed teacher.

[Adrian B AWESOME]

Jason, it's a lot like Arofnosky's "The Wrestler." These guys never quit, even when most sane people would. They're involved in some way until the end of their days. Ric Flair is a perfect example of this as he's SOMEHOW back in the ring again when he should've ridden off into the sunset long ago.

The only guy to do it successfully that I can think of is Dwayne Johnson and even he makes the occasional appearance now and again.

[Masculine Todd]

It's kinda surreal to see this discussed outside of our close-knit Wrestling Thread.

I don't mean that as some passive-aggressive "there's a wrestling thread for this, ya' know" comment, rather we're something of a niche, bastard mega-thread, and unlike, say, the DCU thread or whatever memes/inside jokes from the TIP threads seep out into the greater board, we seldom see people discussing this (other than an ironic Hogan reference or whatever). It's just...weird. I don't know.

All the regulars gave the rundown. I'm just here to say I wish there were more opportunities for a storyline retirement that lead to a legitimate career-cap like Shawn's to happen. Most guys aren't frugal/simply can't afford to retire, or hubris won't allow it. Even worse, they're dead at a premature age. Shawn's feud with 'Taker was a great sendoff, and he's one of the few who has saved wisely and has no desire to endure more abuse for the sake of "another title run" or "one last payday."

[Jason California]

It's kinda surreal to see this discussed outside of our close-knit Wrestling Thread.

I don't mean that as some passive-aggressive "there's a wrestling thread for this, ya' know" comment, rather we're something of a niche, bastard mega-thread, and unlike, say, the DCU thread or whatever memes/inside jokes from the TIP threads seep out into the greater board, we seldom see people discussing this (other than an ironic Hogan reference or whatever). It's just...weird. I don't know.

All the regulars gave the rundown. I'm just here to say I wish there were more opportunities for a storyline retirement that lead to a legitimate career-cap like Shawn's to happen. Most guys aren't frugal/simply can't afford to retire, or hubris won't allow it. Even worse, they're dead at a premature age. Shawn's feud with 'Taker was a great sendoff, and he's one of the few who has saved wisely and has no desire to endure more abuse for the sake of "another title run" or "one last payday."

I also created the "tie violence" thread. I like to a well rounded geek.

[Masculine Todd]

I also created the "tie violence" thread. I like to a well rounded geek.

Ha. Thanks for representing, Jason.

[Chris McCarver]

What happened to Goldberg?

Goldberg's pretty much done with pro wrestling and has been doing other stuff... I saw where he was doing ringside commentary for the EliteXC MMA promotion before it fell apart and got bought up by Strikeforce. He also hosted a show called Bullrun on Spike and later the Speed Channel, which ran three seasons and covered a cross-country road rally.

[Jamie Coville]

If you are watching the Barrett-Jackson car auction going on you might have seen Goldberg there. I haven't watch it myself but I know he regularly makes an appearance there. I'm guessing he saved enough money he can buy/sell hot rods for fun.

[Benel Germosen]

In Mexico, when a luchadore retires (or more commonly changes gimmicks) they usually lose a " Mask " match. Typically, it's the blow-off to some big feud and usually it signifies the end of a character.

[moonspider]

a huge chunk of it is death......it's only a small portion of people `who used to be in the business that could say that they have a good life after the final bell is rung and the 3 count ends

[Damian696]

a huge chunk of it is death......it's only a small portion of people `who used to be in the business that could say that they have a good life after the final bell is rung and the 3 count ends

and part of the thing is, of course, that you can stay in the business well into your 40s, and sometimes even (much) longer. in sports, at some time you have to retire because you just can't be competitive anymore. in wrestling, that can be covered much better. so wrestlers seldom really retire.

[Xorn]

Goldberg's pretty much done with pro wrestling and has been doing other stuff... I saw where he was doing ringside commentary for the EliteXC MMA promotion before it fell apart and got bought up by Strikeforce. He also hosted a show called Bullrun on Spike and later the Speed Channel, which ran three seasons and covered a cross-country road rally.

also he appeared on celebrity apprentice.

[Michael-Deery]

I actually think this generation will be able to retire and walk away.

I just don't see guys like Triple H, Jericho, Cena etc wrestling like the 80s guys do. They seem to have outside interests that keep the busy. In the 80s they use to work and be on the road 27 days out of the month. Those guys didn't even have hobbies.

[Brewtown Andy]

I actually think this generation will be able to retire and walk away.

I just don't see guys like Triple H, Jericho, Cena etc wrestling like the 80s guys do. They seem to have outside interests that keep the busy. In the 80s they use to work and be on the road 27 days out of the month. Those guys didn't even have hobbies.Cena is on the road most of the time. Not wrestling, but doing promo work for the company.

[Masculine Todd]

I actually think this generation will be able to retire and walk away.

I just don't see guys like Triple H, Jericho, Cena etc wrestling like the 80s guys do. They seem to have outside interests that keep the busy. In the 80s they use to work and be on the road 27 days out of the month. Those guys didn't even have hobbies.

Triple H will wrestle until his body gives. His obsession with legacy and beating Flair's 16 World Heavyweight Title reigns is indicative of this, as is his increasing influence and standing in the company. I suspect he won't be satiated with merely being involved with the business/creative end when Stephanie and he finally become the sole directorial unit.

Cena's extracurricular activities and exterior projects have been entirely manufactured by World Wrestling Entertainment. The guy may get a few bit parts and acting jobs were he to leave WWE near the top, but nothing substantial.

Jericho is the only one of the three who has outside prospects/desire to do something else, hence his exodus this month.

[Brewtown Andy]

Triple H will wrestle until his body gives. His obsession with legacy and beating Flair's 16 World Heavyweight Title reigns is indicative of this, as is his increasing influence and standing in the company. I suspect he won't be satiated with merely being involved with the business/creative end when Stephanie and he finally become the sole directorial unit. He might be. They just recently formalized his standing within the company with an official position and he's been off the road for 5 months now. Might be realizing that his time is growing short.

[Mark4myself]

For the most part, as has been stated previously, wrestlers do not get that true final farewell unless its a ten bell salute. Wrestling history is littered with retirement matches but with wrestlers the lure of the spotlight or money woes tend to bring them back to the ring. Rare is it that a retirement match is truly the end. I am sitting here having a hard time thinking of anyone who retired and stayed retired. Harley Race did to the best of my recollection, as has Barry Windham, Kevin Von Erich and Dean Malenko. There have been some who walked away due to injuries such as Arn Anderson, Rick Martel and Steve Austin. Arn did get a sendoff but it was ruined for the sake of yet another NWO angle. So what could have been a touching send off was sullied by Bischoff and Company. The others did not receive a big farewell or fitting end. Just one week, they weren't there and we didn't realize until much later on that we'd seen them for the last time as a performer.

As for those who had "retirements" that didn't take? Roddy Piper was the first one I recall. His fabled Hair match versus the not so adorable Adonis at Wrestlemania III led to a retirement that lasted maybe a year? Ric Flair of course had a great send off in his retirement match followed by a touching Monday Night Raw, yet it was all for naught as he was back in the ring within a year. Hogan has retired more than once. Mick Foley retired years ago after losing a career ending match at Royal Rumble, yet was back in the ring for Wrestlemania within 3 months. The list goes on and on. Ricky Steamboat was an example yet he came back too for a brief nostalgia run, although his retirement was the result of an injury. So no pomp, no circumstance, just the quiet unexpected final walk to the back. It seems the two retirement options for wrestlers tends to be death or injury. Otherwise? At least 90% tend to wrestle until they literally can't or at least should not be. Terry Funk I'm convinced will wrestle until he dies in the ring one night, perhaps from old age.

Even classic retirements such as Verne Gagne going out by winning the AWA Title against Bockwinkel (guess who the booker was?) and Fritz Von Erich going out by winning the Americas Title from King Kong Bundy (Guess who that booker was? I sense a trend hmmmm) were not the final times fans saw those two in tights between the ropes. Bruno Sammartino came out of retirement to try to give his son David a program to propel him. No one is immune. As for today's crop of stars, many of them will go the route of Rourke's character in "The Wrestler". The lone exception I see right now would be Chris Jericho who truly has enough going on outside of the ring to be able to walk away a la Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. As for Triple H? He is too driven, too deeply entrenched in wrestling to walk away or take a step into the corporate background. Will he delve into that as he already has now? Of course. His interest in wrestling is multi faceted but it is rooted on his desire and need as a performer. Many wrestlers have worked in the office and wrestled at the same time before. He will be just one more. He wants to cement his credentials as one of the greatest wrestlers ever too badly. As Todd mentioned, he wants to surpass Flair's 16 title reigns, and unless something tragic happens, he will. His new role in creative assures that in my opinion. As for Cena? Too much is made of his cross over appeal and how much he has going on for him. He is not the crossover star many make him out to be. His movies? All WWE Vehicles. He had one rap CD which was not as successful as some would like you to believe it was. It was not an out and out failure. But there is a reason his second one hasn't dropped yet, and it's not entirely due to his hectic schedule. Cena is a great Ambassador for WWE and represents them well on TV when they send him out (especially for damage control). He has charisma but his options outside of WWE are limited, as Batista is surely discovering even as I type this. Cena is not the second coming of the Rock no matter how badly Vince Mcmahon wants you to believe it. He's talented, has charisma, but he does not have that je ne sais quoi that would propel him to Hollywood fame. Lest we not forget Hogan also was a Hollywood failure no mater how many ways he tries to spin it. His fame is because of what he has done in wrestling not what he's accomplished outside of it.

So in summation while many are deserving and fans for the most part would enjoy a tribute to the wrestlers they love as they walk away to a richly deserved retirement, the wrestling tribute show is an elusive creature usually only seen when a wrestler has passed far too soon rather than when they have reached the twilight of their career. Sadly what one sees in "The Wrestler" is more often than not, the finale most wrestlers have waiting for them.