Today marks the 7th anniversary of the death of professional wrestling legend Bobby Heenan. Heenan also known as “The Brain” was a pioneer manager in the wrestling industry. He managed multiple hall of famers in his 40-plus year career along with commentating for several years. WWE’s announcement of the return of “Saturday Night Main Event” has fans remembering “The Brain” because of his large personality and wit, especially on the anniversary of his death.
Bobby Heenan and his “Family”
Bobby “The Brain” Heenan was one of the most popular managers in wrestling throughout the 80s and early 90s. Heenan was one of the first managers who had multiple clients known as the “Heenan Family.” The family consisted of a group of heel badasses who were some of the biggest names in professional wrestling. Heenan was consistent in trying to destroy “Hulkamania” and had an impressive roster to try to do so.
Bobby Heenan had multiple WWE Hall of Famers under his wing in his tenure. “Mr. Wonderful” Paul Orndorff who infamously teamed with Rowdy Roddy Piper at the original Wrestlemania to take on Hulk Hogan and Mr. T. King Kong Bundy who challenged Hogan at Wrestlemania 2 inside a steel cage. Heenan would also manage three members of the 4 Horsemen, Ric Flair (Wooooo), Arn Anderson, and Tully Blanchard in their respective runs in WWE. “The Brain” also managed World Champions such as Nick Bockwinkel and Harley Race. Not to mention Intercontinental Champions Rick Rude and Mr. Perfect. Oh yeah, Heenan also managed a “King of the Ring,” King Taku.
Bobby Heenan would go on to manage the “8th Wonder of the World,” Andre the Giant as he challenged the “Immortal” Hulk Hogan at Wrestlemania 3. Heenan would convince The Giant to take on Hogan for the title, saying that it was disrespectful for Hogan to not give Andre a shot. The Hulkster would slay The Giant in the Pontiac Silverdome in front of a record-setting crowd.
Bobby Heenan as a Commentator
Bobby Heenan became a commentator for WWE paired alongside fellow Hall Of Famer Gorilla Monsoon. The duo went on to become one of the most popular commentating duos of all time. The matches and vignettes were priceless as Heenan would add his brilliant wit to anything he was involved with. “The Brain” was nicknamed correctly, as he would keep Monsoon and every other commentator, wrestler, and in-ring talent on their feet at all times. The comical reactions and comments entertained fans for years.
Heenan would then join WCW during the “Monday Night Wars” being a pivotal voice during the NWO era. Heenan would sell the idea of the mega group and keep fans engaged and glued to the television set. “The Brain” was a phenomenal entertainer and could have been in any era of professional wrestling history.
Final Thoughts
Bobby “The Brain” Heenan was a pioneer in the industry. He was one of the first managers to manage multiple superstars that weren’t necessarily in the same “faction.” His brilliance for the business opened the doors for guys like Paul Heyman and others. Heenan passed away from throat cancer at the age of 72. Today we remember “The Brain” there will never be another.
As Bobby Heenan once said “I’m a legend in this sport. If you don’t believe me, ask me.”
Bobby “The Brain” Heenan Nov. 1, 1944- Sept. 17, 2017
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