Professional wrestling innovator. Billed as Argentina Rocca for most of his career despite his Italian heritage. Innovated the "high-flying" style of wrestling with his dropkicks and flying body presses, and was recognized as world heavyweight champion by the MAC in Montreal and the AWA in Ohio in the early 1950s. He was a huge draw for the WWWF throughout the 50s and early 60s and headlined madison square garden on many occassions. He was shown wrestling Superman on the cover of issue #155 in 1962. Inducted into the WWE hall of fame in 1995, and also recognized by the Stampede and Wrestling Observer halls of fame. He passed away due to a urinary tract infection and was survived by three children.
Professional wrestling innovator. Billed as Argentina Rocca for most of his career despite his Italian heritage. Innovated the "high-flying" style of wrestling with his dropkicks and flying body presses, and was recognized as world heavyweight champion by the MAC in Montreal and the AWA in Ohio in the early 1950s. He was a huge draw for the WWWF throughout the 50s and early 60s and headlined madison square garden on many occassions. He was shown wrestling Superman on the cover of issue #155 in 1962. Inducted into the WWE hall of fame in 1995, and also recognized by the Stampede and Wrestling Observer halls of fame. He passed away due to a urinary tract infection and was survived by three children.
Gravesite Details
Suggested that ashes may be interred at Beth Israel Cemetery in Woodbridge, NJ. Unconfirmed.
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