Dusty Rhodes

"The American Dream" has been one of the most popular and colorful professional wrestlers in history. Rhodes began wrestling in the 1960s and gained a reputation as a fast-talking, hard-rocking wrestler. He teamed early in his career with fellow Texan, the late Dick Murdoch, and, for more than 20 years, they wreaked havoc in on- and off-again tag team appearances.

Rhodes, always a tough brawler with a few "scientific" moves, finally won his first NWA World heavyweight championship by beating "Handsome" Harley Race in 1979. Although his first title reign would last less than a week, Rhodes managed to capture the NWA title on two more occasions. Today, Rhodes runs a small promotion called "Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling" and continues to wrestle.

Was the booker (head writer) for Jim Crockett Promotions (JCP) from 1984 to 1988. Later held the same job for Ted Turner's World Championship Wrestling (WCW).

Competed in the first mixed tag team match (teaming with Juanita Wright [aka "Sapphire"]) at WrestleMania VI (1990).

Inducted into the WCW Hall of Fame of May 21st, 1995.

Makes occasional appearances on "Total Nonstop Action" pay-per-view broadcasts (under the sanction of the National Wrestling Alliance). Also runs his own company, Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling, which promotes live shows throughout the southeastern United States. [January 2003]

Has signed a 'legends contract' with WWE. [August 2005]

Inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame by sons Dustin Rhodes and Cody Rhodes on March 31st, 2007. [March 2007]

His son Cody Rhodes is a performer in WWE as well (2008).

Inducted into the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2010.