Shag Thomas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Shag Thomas |
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| Birth name | James Thomas |
| Born | August 11, 1924 Stewartsville, Ohio |
| Died | July 25, 1982 (aged 57) Portland, Oregon |
| Professional wrestling career | |
| Ring name(s) | Shag Thomas King Toby |
| Billed height | 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) |
| Billed weight | 255 lb (116 kg) |
| Billed from | Portland, Oregon |
| Debut | 1954 |
| Retired | 1976 |
Shag Thomas, born James Thomas (August 11, 1924 – July 25, 1982), was a famous American professional wrestler. He wrestled mostly in the 1950s and 1960s. Shag was one of the few African-American wrestlers during that time. He helped pave the way for others in the sport.
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Shag Thomas: A Football Star
High School and College Days
James Thomas, known as Shag, was a talented football player. He graduated from Bellaire High School in Ohio in 1942. His high school team, the Big Reds, had an amazing record. They won 31 games, lost 6, and tied 1. They also won an Ohio Valley Athletic Association title.
After high school, Shag served in World War II. Later, he played college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes. He was part of the team that won the Rose Bowl in 1950.
Playing for the Green Bay Packers
In July 1950, Shag Thomas signed a contract with the Green Bay Packers. This was a big step for him. He played in some practice games for the team. However, he was cut from the team before the regular season began.
Shag Thomas: Wrestling Career
Starting His Wrestling Journey
Shag Thomas was born in Stewartsville, Ohio. He began his professional wrestling career in the 1950s. At that time, some parts of professional wrestling were still separated by race. This meant it could be harder for African-American wrestlers to get opportunities.
Success in the Pacific Northwest
Shag became very well-known in the NWA Pacific Northwest Territory. This area was run by a promoter named Don Owen. Don Owen treated all his wrestlers fairly, no matter their background.
Because of this, Shag Thomas really shined there. He won the Pacific Northwest Heavyweight Championship two times. He also won the Tag Team Championship an amazing 16 times! He teamed up with many different partners, including Luther Lindsey and Pepper Martin.
Retirement and Return to the Ring
Shag Thomas first retired from wrestling in 1969. His last match was against Roger Kirby. After retiring, he became a referee for wrestling matches. You could see him on Don Owen's Portland Wrestling TV show.
In 1972, Shag decided to wrestle again. He came out of retirement and continued to compete until 1976.
Shag Thomas: Personal Life
Shag Thomas had a younger brother named Clyde Thomas. Clyde was also a talented athlete. He played football for Ohio University. His team had a perfect season in 1960. Clyde also played professionally for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL. He also played in the CFL and UFL.
Shag Thomas passed away on July 25, 1982. He was 57 years old.
Championships and Accomplishments
- Bellaire High School
- Wall of Fame Induction Class of 1993
- NWA Los Angeles
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- NWA "Beat the Champ" Television Championship (1 time)
- Pacific Northwest Wrestling
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- NWA Pacific Northwest Heavyweight Championship (2 times)
- NWA Pacific Northwest Tag Team Championship (16 times) - with Luther Lindsey (4), Pepper Martin (3), Tony Borne (2), Bearcat Wright (2), Billy White Wolf (1), Danny Hodge (1), Don Manoukian (1), Armand Hussein (1), and Rene Goulet (1)
- Stampede Wrestling
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- NWA Canadian Tag Team Championship (Calgary version) (1 time) - with Mighty Ursus
- NWA International Tag Team Championship (Calgary version) (1 time) - with Mighty Ursus
