Lex Luger Credits WWE Hall of Famer Ricky Steamboat as His In-Ring Mentor

One Big Thing

Lex Luger reveals WWE Hall of Famer Ricky Steamboat taught him the fundamentals of calling matches during their nine-month program in 1989.

Key Details

• Luger started his wrestling career in 1985 in the NWA
• His program with Steamboat peaked at the 1989 Great American Bash
• Their US Championship match ended with Luger winning by disqualification

Direct Quote

“I loved working with Ricky Steamboat. He was a real teacher. He’s the first guy who taught me how to actually work in the ring and call a match,” Luger said during a Monopoly Events interview.

Additional Insights

• Luger named Bret Hart, Sting, and Ric Flair as other favorite opponents
• He expressed gratitude for working with skilled veterans early in his career
• Luger praised current wrestlers’ athleticism compared to his era

Why It Matters

This revelation highlights the vital role veteran wrestlers played in training the next generation of stars during wrestling’s territorial era. Steamboat’s influence on Luger’s career shows how knowledge was passed down through direct mentorship in the ring.

By The Numbers

• 38 years since Luger’s debut in 1985
• 9-month program with Steamboat in 1989
• 1 US Championship match at Great American Bash

What are your memories of Lex Luger’s matches with Ricky Steamboat? Share your thoughts in the comments below.