One big thing: Wrestling legend defies age in extreme match
Dory Funk Jr., 83, demonstrated his enduring toughness by taking an exploding baseball bat shot to the back during a Double Hell Current Explosion Death Match at FMW-E’s event celebrating Atsushi Onita’s 50th anniversary in Japan.
Key details:
• The event also paid tribute to the late Terry Funk, Dory’s brother.
• Funk teamed with Osamu Nishimura, who is battling cancer.
• Their opponents were Atsushi Onita and Raijin Yaguchi.
• The match type is known for its dangerous and extreme nature.
Why it matters:
Funk’s participation at his advanced age raises questions about wrestler safety and the lengths performers go to entertain fans. It also highlights the difficulty some wrestlers face in stepping away from the ring.
By the numbers:
• Funk held the NWA World Heavyweight Championship for over 4 years (1969-1973).
• He is a WWE Hall of Fame inductee.
• Funk has been wrestling professionally for over 60 years.
What they’re saying:
Dory Funk Jr. pressed on, embodying the relentless determination that has earned him a place in wrestling history,” – Ringside News (original source)
The big picture:
Funk’s continued involvement in extreme matches at his age reflects the broader trend of wrestlers extending their careers well past traditional retirement age. This phenomenon includes other notable figures like Sting and Chris Jericho.
What’s next?
It remains to be seen whether Funk will continue to participate in such high-risk matches or if this event will prompt discussions about age limits in professional wrestling.
Do you think there should be an age limit for participating in extreme wrestling matches? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
