Australia has a long and proud history of wrestling, and it has produced some of the best wrestlers in the world. From the legendary John E.
Strongman to the current stars such as Jesse Porter and Damien Martin, the Australian wrestling scene has produced some of the best grapplers in the game.
These athletes have represented their country proudly in international competitions and have built a legacy of excellence that will continue for many years to come. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best wrestlers in Australia and explore their achievements.
1. Al Costello
Giacomo Costa was an Italian-Australian professional wrestler who achieved fame under his stage name, Al Costello. He was a highly innovative wrestler who was known for his precise and technical style.
This earned him the nickname of “The Man of a Thousand Holds”, making him the first wrestler to receive such a prestigious title. Costello was well-respected in the wrestling community and was known for his unique approach to the sport.
He was known to be a master of holds, with a vast repertoire of moves. His style was unlike any other wrestler, which made him stand out among his peers.
He always strived to find new and creative ways to apply his holds, which set him apart from the competition. Costello was also known for his ability to adapt to his opponents. He was able to read his opponents’ moves and adjust his style accordingly.
This made him a very formidable opponent and an unpredictable one. Despite his success in the ring, Costello was also an advocate for the safety of wrestlers.
He was a strong believer in the need for proper safety measures in wrestling and was a proponent of the use of protective gear and training methods.
He was also a vocal advocate for the rights of wrestlers and was always willing to lend his support to causes that aligned with his beliefs. Overall, Giacomo Costa, better known as Al Costello, was a highly respected and innovative professional wrestler.
He was the first to be given the nickname of “The Man of a Thousand Holds” and was known for his technical proficiency and creative approach to the sport. He was also a strong advocate for the safety of wrestlers and was a vocal supporter of the rights of wrestlers.
2. Talgat Ilyasov
Talgat Ilyasov is a remarkable athlete, who has made a name for himself in both the Kazakh and Australian wrestling scenes. Born and raised in Kazakhstan, Ilyasov has managed to make the transition to Australian wrestling and has become an integral part of the sport.
At the 2016 Summer Olympics, Ilyasov represented Australia in the men’s 74-kilogram freestyle wrestling competition.
He put in a remarkable performance, showcasing the skill and determination he is known for. Outside of his sporting career, Ilyasov has also made a name for himself in the wrestling community.
He is currently the President of Wrestling Australia, a position he has held since 2019. Ilyasov is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the sport in Australia, as well as providing support and guidance to the athletes.
He is dedicated to helping the sport reach new heights and ensuring that Australia remains one of the world’s leading nations in wrestling.
3. Cory O’Brien
Cory O’Brien is an Australian wrestler who has made a name for himself in the Olympic Games. He first competed in the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia, where he showed his impressive skills on the wrestling mat.
O’Brien then continued his success by competing in the 2000 Summer Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. This was a special moment for O’Brien as it was his home country for the Olympics and he strived to make a good showing.
He was able to compete in the freestyle wrestling events in both the 1996 and 2000 Olympics, and his impressive performances earned him much respect from fans and competitors alike.
O’Brien has since retired from professional wrestling, but his legacy of determination and dedication to the sport of wrestling still lives on.
4. Monty Hakansson
Monty Hakansson was a Swedish wrestler who immigrated to Australia in 1948. After settling in his new home, he became an Australian citizen and went on to represent his adopted country at the 1956 Summer Olympics.
During the Games, he competed in the men’s Greco-Roman flyweight event. Monty had a successful career in wrestling, both in Sweden and Australia. Prior to his move to Australia, he had achieved success in his native country, winning multiple Swedish championships.
After arriving in Australia, he continued to compete, taking home several Australian championships. The 1956 Summer Olympics were held in Melbourne, Australia, and Monty was one of the Australian wrestlers who competed.
He represented his adopted country proudly, and his performance was an inspiration to many. He was the first Swede-born athlete to represent Australia at the Olympics, and his presence there served as an example that dreams can come true, even when facing immigration challenges.
Monty’s story is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. He moved to Australia with a dream to compete at the highest level, and he achieved it.
His success serves as an example to us all that it is possible to achieve our goals, no matter the obstacles we face.
5. Igor Praporshchikov
Igor Praporshchikov is an Australian wrestler who competed in the 2000 Summer Olympics. He competed in the men’s freestyle 85 kg event, which is a weight category that athletes compete in based on their body weight.
The 85 kg category is a middleweight category and is one of the most competitive weight classes. Praporshchikov was one of the few Australian wrestlers to compete in the Olympic Games in 2000. He put up a good fight in the event, representing his country with pride.
Unfortunately, he did not win a medal, but he still made history by being an Australian wrestler participating in the Olympics. Despite not winning a medal, Praporshchikov’s participation was a great achievement for him and for all of Australia.
6. Leonid Zaslavsky
Leonid Zaslavsky is an accomplished Australian wrestler. He was born in Russia, but moved to Australia at the age of fourteen. He is a two-time Olympic Games participant, having competed in the men’s freestyle 62 kg category at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia.
At the time, he was the second-youngest wrestler to ever compete in the Olympics. In the end, Leonid finished in 13th place in the tournament.
He was also a member of the Australian Wrestling Team at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece. In addition to his Olympic experience, Leonid has been successful in numerous international tournaments.
He won a silver medal at the 2003 Pan American Games in Santo Domingo and a bronze medal at the 2005 Mediterranean Games in Almeria.
He also won several gold medals at the Oceania Championships in both 1998 and 2000. Leonid is also a well-respected coach, having coached the Australian Greco-Roman Wrestling Team at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.
He has continued to coach and mentor aspiring wrestlers and remains active in the world of wrestling.
7. Brett Cash
Brett Cash is a former Australian wrestler who competed in the 2000 Summer Olympics in the men’s Greco-Roman 58 kg weight class.
He was one of the first wrestlers from Australia to compete in the Olympics and was part of a small but dedicated group of wrestlers from Down Under who participated in the Games.
Cash was a part of the Australian wrestling team, which had only been established a few years prior in 1997. Cash had to overcome many obstacles to get to the Olympics, such as training rigorously and sacrificing many of the comforts of home.
His dedication paid off when he was selected to compete in the 2000 Summer Olympics in the Greco-Roman 58 kg weight class.
His performance in the Olympics was not as strong as he had hoped, but he was still proud to have been part of the historic event. Cash’s career in wrestling didn’t end with the Olympics, however.
He continued to compete in various tournaments throughout Australia and the world, even winning a few medals in the process. His career eventually ended in 2011, when he decided to retire from the sport.
Despite his retirement, he remains an inspiration to many aspiring wrestlers in Australia and around the world.
8. Gabriel Szerda
Gabriel Szerda is an Australian wrestler who gained recognition when he competed in the 2000 Summer Olympics. He was part of the men’s freestyle 97 kg category, which is a weight class that is traditionally dominated by wrestlers from the United States.
Despite the odds, Szerda managed to make a name for himself by qualifying for the Olympics. At the 2000 Summer Olympics, Szerda was able to hold his own against some of the best wrestlers in the world.
He was able to make it to the quarterfinals before being eliminated, but his efforts were still impressive.
He showcased his athleticism and skill in the competition and earned the respect of many in the wrestling community. Szerda’s Olympic performance is even more impressive when considering the fact that he is from Australia, a country that is not as well-known for wrestling as some of the other countries that participate in the Olympics.
His accomplishment is even more impressive when considering that he was able to make it to the quarterfinals in a weight class that was traditionally dominated by wrestlers from the United States. Szerda’s Olympic performance stands out as a testament to his hard work and determination.
He was able to make a name for himself on the world stage and prove that he could compete with the best of the best in the sport of wrestling. His performance at the 2000 Summer Olympics is an inspiring story of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
9. Thomas Bolger
Thomas Patrick Bolger was an Australian wrestler who represented his country at the 1928 Summer Olympics in Amsterdam. Bolger competed in the freestyle middleweight contest at the Olympics, but unfortunately, he did not come away with a victory.
He was eliminated in the preliminary round after facing opponents from France, Turkey, and Poland.
Bolger’s performance at the Olympics was not enough to earn him a place on the podium, but it was still a remarkable achievement considering the level of competition at the Olympic Games in 1928.
Bolger’s bravery and determination to take part in the Olympics is noteworthy, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Australian athletes.
10. Joseph Zammit
Joseph Zammit was an Australian athlete who specialized in the sport of wrestling. He is best known for competing in the Greco-Roman heavyweight division at the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne, Australia.
Zammit was born in Sydney, Australia and began his wrestling career at a young age. He quickly rose through the ranks and earned a place on the Australian Olympic team for the 1956 Games. At the 1956 Summer Olympics, Zammit competed in the men’s Greco-Roman heavyweight division.
His competition included wrestlers from around the world, including the United States’ Thomas Schoen and the Soviet Union’s Sergei Beloglazov. Despite his best efforts, Zammit did not medal at the Games and finished out of the top three.
Nevertheless, his participation in the Olympics is a testament to his skill and dedication as a wrestler. Joseph Zammit was a highly respected athlete and a great representative of Australia.
He continued to compete in wrestling tournaments around the world until his retirement in 1960. Zammit’s legacy as a wrestler lives on, as he is remembered as a great competitor and a devoted athlete who represented his country with distinction.
11. Arek Olczak
Arek Olczak is an Australian professional wrestler. He is best known for his participation in the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia. Olczak competed in the men’s Greco-Roman 85 kg weight class.
Greco-Roman is a style of wrestling that originated in Ancient Greece and emphasizes the use of throws and upper-body holds. It differs from freestyle wrestling, which allows the use of leg holds and other techniques.
Olczak’s participation in the 2000 Olympics was a major accomplishment for him and for Australia. He was the first Australian wrestler to compete in a Summer Olympics since 1952, and he was the first wrestler from Australia to compete in the Greco-Roman style.
Despite not winning a medal, Olczak’s performance was impressive and he is still remembered in Australia for his Olympic accomplishments.
12. Grayson Waller
Matthew Farrelly is a professional wrestler from Australia. He is currently signed to WWE, one of the biggest and most prestigious wrestling promotions in the world, and performs under the ring name Grayson Waller on their SmackDown brand.
Before joining WWE, Farrelly had built an impressive career on the independent wrestling circuit, competing under the name Matty Wahlberg.
During his time on the independent wrestling scene, Farrelly made a name for himself as a versatile in-ring performer, adept at both technical and high-flying wrestling styles.
He is also known for his ability to develop unique characters and stories that draw fans into his matches. In WWE, Farrelly continues to showcase his talents, entertaining fans of all ages with his exciting in-ring style and memorable characters.
13. Claude Angelo
Claude Angelo was an Australian athlete who specialized in the sport of wrestling. He was a freestyle featherweight wrestler, meaning he was a lighter-weight athlete. He was the first Australian to compete in Olympic wrestling, participating in the 1924 Summer Olympics.
Angelo competed in the freestyle featherweight event, which is a type of wrestling that includes techniques from Greco-Roman and other styles. During the event, Angelo achieved a fourth-place finish, highlighting his outstanding skill and athleticism.
His performance in the Olympics marked the first time an Australian wrestler had ever competed in the Games. Angelo’s success in the Olympics paved the way for future Australian wrestlers to compete in the Games, inspiring many to follow in his footsteps.
14. Mick Pikos
Mick Pikos is a renowned Australian athlete who has competed in two Olympic Games. He first participated in the 1980 Summer Olympics, making his debut in the international sporting arena.
After that, he went on to compete in the 1996 Summer Olympics, where he returned to the world stage as a veteran athlete. Pikos was a wrestler and earned himself a great deal of recognition for his accomplishments.
During his time competing in the Olympics, he showed great skill and determination in the ring, making him a formidable opponent for any opponent.
He was also able to show off his agility and strength during his competition, making him a formidable opponent when it came to matches. In addition to competing in the Olympics, Pikos also competed in other international tournaments.
He was a part of the Australian team in the World Cup of Freestyle Wrestling in 1991.
He also competed in the Pan American Championship in 1993 and won a bronze medal in the Commonwealth Games in 1994. Mick Pikos is an example of an athlete who was able to make a name for himself by competing in the Olympics.
He showed that, with dedication and hard work, one can succeed in any field. His success in the Olympics and other international tournaments is a testament to his skill and dedication as an athlete.
15. Rein Ozoline
Reinold Ozoline is an Australian former wrestler who was born on May 18, 1967 in St. Petersburg, Russia. He competed in the 1996 and 2000 Summer Olympics, making him one of the most successful wrestlers of his time.
He was known for his speed and agility on the mat, which he used to great effect in both Olympic Games. Despite his success, Reinold never reached the heights of other wrestlers who competed during the same period.
He retired from the sport shortly after the 2000 Games and has since moved on to other projects. Reinold’s accomplishments are still remembered and respected by many in the wrestling community, and he is an inspiration to many of today’s athletes.
16. Eddie Scarf
Edward Richard Scarf was an accomplished Australian athlete. He competed in both wrestling and boxing and was an Olympic bronze medalist in Freestyle Wrestling in 1932. Scarf had a strong passion for athletics and this led to his success in the 1932 Olympics.
He was determined to do well in the 1936 Olympics as well, and he was able to take part in the competition. The scarf was an inspiration to many other athletes and a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
He showed that anyone can achieve greatness if they have the determination and drive to do so. He was a true example of the power of hard work and dedication. Scarf’s legacy lives on today, and he is remembered as one of Australia’s greatest athletes.
17. Madison Eagles
Alexandra Ford is an accomplished professional wrestler, more commonly known by her ring name Madison Eagles. She has amassed a great deal of experience in the sport, having competed in Australia, the United States, Canada, and Japan.
Her impressive list of accomplishments includes being a two-time Shimmer Champion, a title she held for an impressive period of time. Her career in the wrestling world began in her native Australia, where she quickly gained recognition for her talent and skill.
She has battled the likes of some of the best wrestlers in the world, including former WWE Women’s Champion Melina and former TNA Knockout Champion Madison Rayne.
Eagles has also competed in various promotions such as Shimmer Women Athletes and SHIMMER, where she was the two-time Shimmer Champion. In addition to her success in the ring, Eagles has also been featured on numerous television shows, including Total Divas and Total Bellas.
Her appearances have not only raised her profile but have also served to raise the profile of women’s wrestling in general. Alexandra Ford, better known as Madison Eagles, is a talented and successful professional wrestler.
She has competed in promotions all around the world and has held the Shimmer Championship twice. Her success has also made her a recognizable figure in the world of professional wrestling, having been featured on popular television shows.
18. Geoffrey Jameson
Geoffrey Jameson was an Australian wrestler who represented his country in two Olympic Games. He made his Olympic debut in 1956 at the Melbourne Summer Olympics, where he competed in the men’s freestyle lightweight division.
Despite not making it to the podium, his performance earned him critical acclaim from the wrestling community. Four years later, in 1960, Jameson once again represented Australia at the Rome Summer Olympics.
Despite having a strong showing, he was unable to bring home a medal this time around. Nevertheless, his participation in two Olympic Games is a testament to his commitment to the sport and to his country.
19. Tony Kontellis
Antonios “Tony” Kontellis is a former professional wrestler whose career has spanned a variety of wrestling promotions.
Born in Australia to Greek parents, Kontellis has wrestled in several different countries and wrestled in promotions such as World Championship Wrestling Australia and World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF) for Vince McMahon Sr.Kontellis has had a long and successful career as a professional wrestler.
He has competed in various styles of wrestling, including Greco-Roman, freestyle, and amateur wrestling. Kontellis has also battled in the popular and highly competitive World Championship Wrestling (WCW) Australia.
He has competed in matches against some of the best wrestlers in the business, such as The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and Rey Mysterio. Kontellis has also made a name for himself in the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF) for Vince McMahon Sr.
During his time in the WWF, he held multiple championship titles, including the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship.
He also competed in some of the most memorable matches of that era, including the first ever ladder match and a classic battle with Andre the Giant. Throughout his career, Kontellis has gained a reputation for being a talented and hard-working wrestler.
His dedication to the sport has earned him the respect of his peers, as well as fans around the world. He has also been a mentor and inspiration to aspiring wrestlers, providing a blueprint for success in the wrestling business.
20. Sheik Ali
Wadi Ayoub was a renowned wrestler who had a successful career both in Lebanon and as a professional wrestler. He was best known as Sheik Ali in Australia and other countries that he toured to.
He was highly regarded for his headbutts and was known for his signature move, the “Egyptian Deadlock”. He was a champion in the Greco–Roman style of wrestling and continued to remain popular in the wrestling world for a number of years.
His unique style and athleticism earned him a great deal of respect and admiration from wrestling fans all over the world. He was a true champion of the sport and an inspiration to many who followed in his footsteps.
21. August Kippasto
August Johannes Kippasto was an exceptional athlete who competed in the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm. He was born in Russia and later became an Estonian citizen. Kippasto was a wrestler who competed for the Russian Empire in the Olympics.
He was part of the Russian team that competed in the Greco-Roman wrestling events. Kippasto was a talented athlete who had a great deal of success in the Greco-Roman wrestling events.
He was able to win a silver medal in the heavyweight division of the Greco-Roman wrestling event. This was a remarkable achievement considering the high level of competition in the Olympics.
He was also able to take home the bronze medal in the middleweight division of the Greco-Roman wrestling event. This was an impressive showing for Kippasto and the Russian team. Kippasto was an important figure in the history of the Russian Empire.
He was able to represent his country at the highest level of competition and was able to bring home two medals. This was an important accomplishment for the reputation of the Russian Empire and Kippasto was able to be a part of it.
This shows his dedication to the sport of wrestling and to his country. Kippasto was an important figure in the history of Estonian wrestling as well. He was part of a group of wrestlers who helped to develop the sport of wrestling in Estonia.
With his success in the 1912 Olympics, Kippasto was able to inspire others to take up the sport of wrestling and make it an important part of Estonian culture. August Johannes Kippasto was an important figure in the history of the Russian Empire and of Estonian wrestling.
He was able to compete at the highest level of competition and bring home two medals for his country. His success was an inspiration to others and helped to develop the sport of wrestling in Estonia.
Kippasto was a dedicated athlete who was able to make a lasting impact on his country.
22. Buddy Matthews
Matthew Adams is an Australian professional wrestler who is currently signed to All Elite Wrestling (AEW). He is known by his ring name, Buddy Matthews, and is a member of the stable House of Black.
He has previously won the AEW World Trios Championship, making him a one-time champion. Adams has been wrestling for a number of years and is well-known for his high-flying style and dynamic personality.
He is a popular figure in the wrestling world and has become a fan favorite. Adams has been a part of several big matches and has been involved in some of the most memorable moments in AEW history.
His skill and charisma have made him a valuable asset to AEW and he is likely to continue to be a major player in the promotion for years to come.
23. Nathan Jones
Nathan Jones is a well-known figure in both the entertainment and professional sports worlds. He is an Australian actor, powerlifting champion, strongman, and retired professional wrestler.
He has achieved a great deal of success in all of these fields and is most widely recognized for his time in the WWE. Jones has had a long and successful career in the entertainment world.
He first started acting in 1972, appearing in various Australian television series and films. He has also acted in several international films, such as Troy, Mad Max: Fury Road, and The Matrix Revolutions.
His acting credits are extensive, and he has received numerous awards and accolades for his work. In addition to his acting career, Jones is also an accomplished powerlifter, strongman, and retired professional wrestler.
He has won several powerlifting competitions and has set multiple records for his weight class. Jones was also a popular professional wrestler, competing for many years in the WWE.
He has been inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame for his contributions to the sport. Overall, Nathan Jones is a highly accomplished individual. His career spans many different fields, and he has achieved success in each one.
He is best known for his time in the WWE, but his accomplishments stretch far beyond that. He is a truly impressive figure and an example of what hard work and dedication can accomplish.
24. Tenille Dashwood
Tenille Averil Dashwood is an Australian professional wrestler who is currently signed to WWE, one of the most popular professional wrestling organizations in the world. She performs under the ring name Emma on the Raw brand, which is a weekly show that airs on Monday nights.
Dashwood started her professional wrestling career in 2003 at the age of 13, training in Australia. She was trained by her father and other experienced wrestlers, who taught her the basics of professional wrestling.
She quickly picked up the skills and began to compete in small shows in the country. After a few years of working hard and perfecting her craft, she was eventually signed by WWE in 2011.
She has since gone on to become one of the most popular female wrestlers in the company, performing in numerous matches and taking part in storylines.
Dashwood is a true inspiration for aspiring professional wrestlers as she has shown that hard work and dedication can lead to success.
25. Rhea Ripley
Demi Bennett is an Australian professional wrestler who is signed to WWE. She performs on the Raw brand under the name Rhea Ripley and is a member of the Judgment Day stable. Bennett is currently the Women’s World Champion, marking her first reign with the title.
She has had an impressive career so far, having won multiple championships in her home country before joining WWE. Bennett’s in-ring style is a combination of hard-hitting strikes and high-flying aerial maneuvers, making her a formidable opponent in the ring.
With her presence in the WWE Women’s Division, she has been a major part of the Women’s Evolution and has inspired countless aspiring wrestlers around the world. Bennett is continuing to make history in WWE, and her future looks brighter than ever.
26. Outback Jack
Peter Stilsbury is a renowned former professional wrestler from Australia. He is best known for his appearances in the World Wrestling Federation, where he was known as Outback Jack from 1986 to 1988.
He was an iconic figure in the field of wrestling and portrayed a unique character – a northern Australian bushman who had traveled to America to compete in the WWF.
This character resonated with wrestling fans all around the world, allowing Peter to make a lasting impression in the world of wrestling. Not only was Outback Jack a fan favorite but he was also praised for being a talented in-ring performer.
He was known for his technique, strength, and athleticism, and was often involved in some of the most memorable matches of the era.
Even after his retirement, Peter Stilsbury remained a popular figure in the wrestling community and was always highly respected for his unique contributions to the sport.
27. Robbie Eagles
Robbie Eagles is a talented Australian professional wrestler who currently competes for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). As part of the stable called The Mighty Don’t Kneel, Eagles has achieved great success in the wrestling world.
He has been crowned the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion on one occasion, and he was also one-half of the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champions with his partner Tiger Mask IV. Eagles’ flair and skills have earned him respect and admiration from many fans and peers alike.
Eagles is one of the most promising wrestlers in NJPW, and his future looks incredibly bright.
28. Bronson Reed
Jermaine Haley is a professional wrestler from Australia who is currently signed to WWE. He is known by his ring name, Bronson Reed, and performs on the Raw brand.
He has achieved immense success in wrestling and is a former NXT North American Champion, having won the championship in 2020. Haley has been active in the wrestling industry since 2013, and he began competing in WWE in 2019.
He is an incredibly talented wrestler and has competed in many high-profile matches. He won the NXT North American Championship in May 2020 in a triple-threat match against Keith Lee and Cameron Grimes.
He also competed in the 2020 Men’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic with fellow Australian wrestler, Jake Atlas. Haley has an impressive repertoire of moves, which includes a beautiful springboard moonsault. He has used these moves to pick up many victories in the ring.
He is an impressive athlete and is known for his agility and strength. Haley’s career is just getting started and he is sure to achieve many more successes in the future. He is a talented wrestler and a great representative for the sport.
He is an inspiration to many aspiring wrestlers and his success is proof that hard work and dedication can pay off.
29. Roy Heffernan
Laurence Roy Heffernan was an Australian professional wrestler who gained worldwide fame for being one half of the Fabulous Kangaroos tag team.
Heffernan was a revered wrestler who toured the world competing in various promotions. The Fabulous Kangaroos, which consisted of Heffernan and his partner Al Costello, were one of the top tag teams in the sport of professional wrestling during the 1950s and 1960s.
The duo, who were managed by John “Jack” Hill, were known for their signature move called the “Kangaroo Hop”, where they would leap simultaneously into the air and land on their opponent. Furthermore, the two wrestlers were also well known for their use of colorful costumes, which included oversized furry hats, and they often wrestled in front of sold-out crowds.
The Fabulous Kangaroos won numerous titles during their career, including the World Tag Team Championships and the World Wide Wrestling Federation Tag Team Championships. In addition to his success in the ring, Heffernan also had an impressive career outside of wrestling.
He served as a referee, a trainer, and a commentator. Heffernan was also a successful businessman and even ran his own wrestling school. Overall, Laurence Roy Heffernan was a legendary wrestler whose career in the sport of professional wrestling spanned decades.
As one half of the Fabulous Kangaroos, he gained worldwide fame and recognition, and his legacy continues to live on in the sport today.
30. Cassie Lee
Cassandra McIntosh is an Australian professional wrestler who is widely recognized for her work in the WWE and Impact Wrestling.
She performed under the ring name Peyton Royce during her time with the WWE and as Cassie Lee when she was part of Impact Wrestling. In the WWE, Cassandra McIntosh was part of the tag team The IIconics alongside Billie Kay.
Together they won the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship from Bayley and Sasha Banks at WrestleMania 35. In addition to her success as part of a team, she also had a successful singles career.
She was part of the inaugural Women’s Royal Rumble in 2018 and also participated in the Women’s Money in the Bank ladder match in 2019. Cassandra McIntosh’s time with Impact Wrestling was equally impressive.
She was part of a number of high-profile matches and feuds with the likes of Tessa Blanchard, D’Lo Brown, and Rosemary.
During her time there, she held the Impact Knockouts Championship and was part of a tournament to crown the inaugural Impact Knockouts Tag Team Champions. In addition to her work in the ring, Cassandra McIntosh is also a model and an actress.
She has had roles in the films WWF Raw is War and WWE SmackDown! as well as the television series Total Divas. Cassandra McIntosh is one of the most impressive women in professional wrestling.
Her work in the WWE and Impact Wrestling has earned her a legion of fans and she continues to impress with her in-ring work and her performances on the big and small screens.
31. Greg Bownds
Gregory James Bownds is an Australian professional wrestler and promoter, who is more commonly known by his stage name, TNT. He is the founder and owner of the Australasian Wrestling Federation (AWF), an independent promotion that is based out of Australia.
TNT has been involved in wrestling for many years and has headlined events for a number of other independent promotions across the country. In addition to being an active wrestler, TNT is also heavily involved in the promotion side of the business.
He is responsible for the overall direction of the AWF, from booking matches to marketing and advertising.
He also plays a key role in the recruitment and training of new talent and works to ensure that the promotion has a strong presence in the wrestling community. Beyond the ring, TNT is a highly respected figure within the wrestling industry.
He is known for his professionalism and dedication to the sport and has been praised for his commitment to helping the AWF flourish.
By successfully managing the promotion, he has helped to ensure its longevity and success.TNT’s involvement in the sport has earned him a great deal of respect and admiration from both his peers and fans.
With a wealth of experience and a passion for the business, TNT has become one of the most respected names in the wrestling industry.
32. Shazza McKenzie
Chantelle Allison is an Australian professional wrestler who is better known by her ring name, Shazza McKenzie.
She is highly regarded in the professional wrestling world and is widely known for her work across the independent circuit for promotions such as Shine Wrestling and SHIMMER Women Athletes.
She has a long history in professional wrestling, having started in the 1990s and gaining fame in the 2000s.
She has had a successful career in the ring, having held multiple titles in promotions such as Pro Wrestling Alliance Australia, Professional Championship Wrestling, and wrestling in Japan.
She is also a well-respected mentor to aspiring wrestlers, having trained numerous wrestlers in her own wrestling school. Her influence in the industry is undeniable, having been featured in multiple documentaries and interviews throughout her career.
She is a true example of a successful professional wrestler and continues to make her mark in the world of wrestling.
33. Duke Hudson
Brendan Vink is a professional wrestler from Australia currently signed to WWE, where he performs under the name Duke Hudson.
He has earned a reputation in the wrestling world for his time in Melbourne City Wrestling, where he was a part of the faction known as The Mighty Don’t Kneel.
This group was composed of Vink and other wrestlers from Melbourne, and they were known for their hard-hitting style and impressive performances. Vink has been able to take these skills to the next level since joining WWE’s NXT brand, where he has quickly become a fan favorite.
He has developed a unique style of wrestling, combining the traditional aspects of the sport with his own high-energy moves. He has earned praise for his work in the ring and is quickly establishing himself as one of the top stars in NXT.
34. Jonathan Boyd
Jonathan Barry Boyle, better known as “Lord” Jonathan Boyd, was an Australian professional wrestler who achieved worldwide fame.
He began his career in North American and international promotions as part of the Royal Kangaroos, a tag team with his cousin Norman Frederick Charles III.
Boyd was an incredibly successful wrestler, and his impressive performances earned him respect and admiration from fans all over the world. His combination of strength, agility, and technical skill made him one of the most respected wrestlers in the industry.
Boyd was known for his hard-hitting style and showmanship, which made him incredibly popular with fans. He also had an impressive array of signature moves, including the Kangaroo Kick and the Aussie Suplex.
His matches were always entertaining and full of energy, and he was a true fan favorite. Although he retired in 2003, his legacy continues to live on in the hearts of wrestling fans everywhere.
35. Hassan Shahsavan
Hassan Shahsavan is an impressive athlete, hailing from both Iran and Australia. He is an amateur Greco-Roman wrestler, competing in the men’s middleweight category.
His hard work and dedication was rewarded when he won a bronze medal for his division at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, India.
His success is especially impressive considering the fact that Greco-Roman wrestling is a difficult sport, requiring a great deal of strength, agility, and determination.
Shahsavan’s commitment and determination are an inspiration to athletes around the world, showing that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
36. Kellie Skater
Callee Keating is a retired professional wrestler from Australia who gained fame by performing under the ring name Kellie Skater. She had a successful career, wrestling in multiple countries such as Australia, Canada, Japan, and the United States.
Callee was also well-known for her outstanding in-ring performances, which often included high-flying maneuvers and submission holds. She was a fan favorite, with many fans cheering her on during her matches.
In 2008, Callee was signed to the Shimmer Women Athletes promotion, where she competed against some of the most talented female wrestlers in the world. She was a part of the Shimmer Championship tournament and was the first woman to hold the Shimmer Tag Team Championship.
She also held the Shimmer Championship for a brief period of time. In 2011, Callee retired from wrestling in order to focus on other projects. She has since gone on to become an advocate for mental health awareness and has also done some acting.
Callee is a respected figure in the wrestling community and is looked up to by many aspiring female wrestlers.
37. Shane Thorne
Shane Veryzer is an Australian professional wrestler who is currently making waves in the world of professional wrestling by working for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW).
He performs under the ring name Shane Haste as a member of “The Mighty Don’t Kneel”, a stable of wrestlers in NJPW. Before joining NJPW, Veryzer was a prominent figure in the WWE, where he performed under the ring names Shane Thorne and Slapjack.
In WWE, Veryzer was known for his ability to create excitement in the ring with his impressive high-flying moves and his ability to connect with the crowd. He was also known for his willingness to take risks and push boundaries.
His career in WWE was marked by both successes and failures, but he established himself as a reliable performer who could be counted on to deliver a great match.
While Veryzer is still relatively new to the NJPW scene, his experience in WWE has already helped him stand out in the world of professional wrestling. With his impressive skills and his experience in the big leagues, Veryzer is sure to make a big impact on NJPW.
38. Daniel Vidot
Daniel Sean Vidot is an extraordinary athlete. He is currently a professional wrestler and a former professional rugby league footballer. Vidot is currently signed to the WWE, one of the most popular wrestling organizations in the world, under the ring name Xyon Quinn.
This allows him to appear on both the Raw and SmackDown brands. This is an impressive feat, considering the WWE is a highly competitive and sought-after organization. Vidot has made an impressive name for himself in both the wrestling and football world.
As a wrestler, his ring name, Xyon Quinn, has become well-known and respected. His numerous appearances on the Raw and SmackDown brands have only increased his fame and popularity.
Furthermore, his impressive rugby league career has earned him much respect and admiration. Vidot’s success is a testament to his skill, dedication, and hard work.
As a free agent, he is able to appear on both the Raw and SmackDown brands, something that very few wrestlers can do. He has achieved great success in both of his careers and continues to work hard to improve and build upon his accomplishments.
39. Nick Miller
Michael Nicholls, better known by his ring name Mikey Nicholls, is an Australian professional wrestler. He is currently signed to New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), one of the most significant professional wrestling promotions in the world.
At NJPW, Mikey Nicholls is a member of The Mighty Don’t Kneel (MDK) stable.
MDK is a faction of wrestlers who have come together with the intention of making a name for themselves in the NJPW. Mikey Nicholls is a highly talented wrestler with a great deal of experience in the professional wrestling world.
He has wrestled for various promotions around the world, including the United States-based Impact Wrestling and Ring of Honor.
He has also competed in Australia’s Melbourne City Wrestling and Pro Wrestling Australia. Mikey Nicholls’ style is a mix of high-flying maneuvers and powerful strikes. He is a very agile competitor and is capable of performing death-defying high-flying moves.
He is also capable of executing devastating power moves such as suplexes and power bombs. Mikey Nicholls is an incredibly popular wrestler, with a large and dedicated fan base. He is known for his charisma and entertaining ring style, which has made him a fan favorite in the NJPW.
He is a mainstay in the NJPW and has been a part of the promotion for several years. Mikey Nicholls is an important part of The Mighty Don’t Kneel stable, and his presence helps to further the group’s agenda.
With his impressive in-ring abilities and popularity, Mikey Nicholls is sure to be a major part of the NJPW for years to come.
40. Kyle Fletcher
Kyle Fletcher is a prominent figure in the professional wrestling world. He currently competes in All Elite Wrestling and Ring of Honor, two of the most renowned wrestling promotions in the world.
In Ring of Honor, Fletcher has become a champion, winning the ROH World Tag Team Championship alongside his partner, Mark Davis. He and Davis held the titles for a brief period of time, before eventually dropping them to The Briscoes.
Despite the relatively short reign, Fletcher has proved his worth as a wrestler, and he continues to be a force to be reckoned with in AEW and ROH.
41. Australian Suicide
Broderick Shepherd is an Australian professional wrestler, who is currently working for Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide.
He is best known by his ring name Australian Suicide, and is a former AAA World Cruiserweight Champion. Born in Australia, Shepherd began his wrestling career in 2004, performing in a variety of independent promotions, including World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).
In 2016, Shepherd signed with Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide and made his debut as Australian Suicide, quickly becoming a fan favorite with his high-flying, high-energy style. Since his debut in AAA, Shepherd has gone on to become one of the most successful names in the company.
In 2018, he captured the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship, becoming the first-ever Australian to hold the title. He has also won the AAA Tag Team Championship twice, once with his partner Octagon Jr.
and again with Daga. In addition to his success in AAA, Shepherd has also had a successful career in the United States, performing for various promotions including Impact Wrestling and Ring of Honor.
He has also made appearances for WWE, including at WrestleMania 34. Overall, Broderick Shepherd is an incredibly talented wrestler who has achieved great success in both the US and Mexico and is a true testament to the hard work and dedication that goes into becoming a professional wrestler.
42. Sam Greco
Salvatore “Sam” Greco is a renowned martial artist. He is from Australia and has retired from full-contact karate, heavyweight K-1 kickboxing, and mixed martial arts.
Greco was a respected athlete in all of these sports, having achieved success in each of them. In full contact karate, Greco was a seven-time Australian champion. He also competed in the World Karate Federation and had a successful career.
Greco was a heavyweight K-1 kickboxer and won multiple fights in the K-1 Grand Prix. His skill and technique in the ring earned him a lot of respect from fans and fellow athletes alike. Greco was also a mixed martial artist, having fought in Pride and Cage Rage.
He is known for his unique style, blending techniques from multiple martial arts into one fluid and powerful attack. Greco is now retired from competition, but his legacy still lives on. He is remembered as a master of all martial arts and an inspiration to many.
43. Steve Rackman
Steve Rackman is an English-born Australian actor and professional wrestler who is most well-known for his role in the film Crocodile Dundee as Donk. He first gained notoriety in the world of professional wrestling, where he went by the ring name of Steve ‘Crusher’ Rackman.
Rackman started his wrestling career in the United Kingdom and then moved to Australia. He quickly became a popular figure in the Australian wrestling scene and eventually began competing in the United States.
He is remembered for his larger-than-life persona and his impressive strength in the ring, which he used to become a multiple-time champion in both the United States and Australia.
He was also known for his unique style of catch wrestling, which blended traditional wrestling moves with techniques from other fighting styles. After a successful career in wrestling, Rackman turned his attention to acting.
He has appeared in numerous films and television shows, most notably in the role of Donk in Crocodile Dundee. He has also lent his voice to various video games and voice-over work.
Conclusion
Australia is home to some of the best wrestlers in the world. With a deep and talented roster of athletes, the sport of Wrestling has been thriving in Australia, producing some of the most skilled and successful wrestlers in the world.
From past champions like Dean Finnegan and Joe Gafa to up-and-coming stars like Kayla Harrison and Ronda Rousey, Australia’s wrestling scene is in good hands for the future.
