Originally presented at Ten Bell Salute

Black History Month is being celebrated in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom and the WWE Network is honoring the contributions of black (I don’t use the term African-American because not all black wrestlers were from the United States) athletes from many promotions as well as many historical eras. While professional wrestling has not shied away from running racist angles, wise promoters have looked past a person’s skin color in order to make money with wrestlers, regardless of race. This time around, I look at the amazing career of Ernie "The Cat" Ladd, a champion for civil rights, an NFL legend, and a WWE Hall of Famer.

He wasn't called "The Big Cat" for nothing.