The pro-wrestling world is mourning the loss of WWE Hall of Famer Iron Sheik, who recently passed away at the age of 81. The legendary wrestler had three runs with WWE throughout his career and gave fans some memorable matches in the process.
Iron Sheik vs. Hulk Hogan in 1984
One of the most iconic matches involving Iron Sheik was in 1984 when he clashed with Hulk Hogan for the WWE Championship at Madison Square Garden. This showdown marked the beginning of “Hulkamania” and changed the face of pro wrestling. Hogan became the first pro wrestler to break out of Iron Sheik’s Camel Clutch, making wrestling history in the process.
Boot Camp Match: Sgt. Slaughter vs. Iron Sheik
Another memorable match was the Boot Camp match against Sgt. Slaughter. This storyline painted Iron Sheik as the foreign heel (villain) against the American patriot, Sgt. Slaughter. The brutal, bloody match eventually saw Sgt. Slaughter overpowering Iron Sheik as the crowd went wild in support of their local hero.
Iron Sheik vs. Bob Backlund for the WWE Championship
In another momentous encounter, Iron Sheik faced Bob Backlund for the WWE Championship. The battle showcased both Backlund’s technical wrestling prowess and Sheik’s powerful moves. Ultimately, the Iron Sheik’s Camel Clutch led to Backlund’s manager, Arnold Skaaland, throwing in the towel, making the Iron Sheik the new WWE Champion and leaving fans in shock.
Overall, the Iron Sheik’s wrestling career was filled with historic moments and unforgettable matches that will be remembered and celebrated by fans for decades to come. His legacy as a pioneer in the pro-wrestling world will live on.
