Arnold Skaaland (1925-2007)

[Y 2 Jake]

According to WWE.com, The "Golden Boy" Arnold Skaaland passed away late Tuesday evening at the age of 82. He died with his wife at his side.

Skaaland is a member of the WWE Hall of Fame and has been a member of the WWE family for over 50-years. He was a known manager, wrestler and promoter and one of the stockholders of the early Capitol Wrestling Corporation.

1967 saw he and Spiros Arion win the WWE United States Tag Team Championship. Another career highlight was when he served as the referee for the famous 1962 match in Japan between "Classy" Freddie Blassie and Rikidozan. What most fans remember Skaaland for is the "throwing in of the towel" in the Bob Backlund vs. Iron Sheik WWF Title match in 1983.

Our condolences go out to the family, friends and fans of Mr. Skaaland.

 

[Y 2 Jake]

Date of Birth
21 January 1925, Valhalla, New York, USA

Spouse
Betty (? - ?)

Trivia

Managed such greats as Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka, WWF champion Bob Backlund and "The Living Legend" Bruno Sammartino.

WWE Hall of Famer.

His surname is pronounced 'Sko-lund'.

He threw in the towel resulting in Bob Backlund losing the World title to the Iron Sheik in controversial fashion.

 

[Y 2 Jake]

 

[tmangamer]

Another wrestling legend dying this year... This year is really a tragic year for the wrestling industry. I believe we are at 6 deaths now of former superstars of one of the big federations.

 

[Y 2 Jake]

I've never seen him wrestle, but I've heard of him and I've seen Backlund loosing the title.

I agree with 5 death's so far this year isnt turning out very well. At least him and Ernie Ladd were older than most wrestler's.

 

[rewing]

one of the best he was a real classy guy the link between bruno and bob backlund