Brian Mackney Passes Away at 77
Canadian wrestling icon "Silent" Brian Mackney has passed away at the age of 77. Despite being mute, Mackney thrived in professional wrestling for 26 years, overcoming significant challenges.
Career and Legacy
Trained by Love Brother Johnny Evans, Mackney never reached main event status but gained fame as enhancement talent in Canadian wrestling. He was well known in Maple Leaf Wrestling and WWF, working alongside names like “Iron” Mike Sharpe and The Brooklyn Brawler. His career also included notable stints in New Japan Pro Wrestling and All Japan Pro Wrestling.
Brian Mackney made history as the first deaf wrestler employed by WWE, breaking barriers for athletes with disabilities. In 2019, he received a lifetime achievement award from Great White North Wrestling.
Tribute from Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling
“MAPLE LEAF PRO is saddened to hear of the passing today of ‘Silent’ Brian Mackney, a Maple Leaf Wrestling alumni and legend in Toronto. Mackney was more than a journeyman, who not only won the hearts of the Toronto fans in the 1970s and 1980s, but gained attention around the world, competing in Japan with both New Japan Pro Wrestling and All-Japan Pro Wrestling. He also worked various territories of the NWA, including Mid-Atlantic. When the WWF took over Toronto, Silent Brian continued working in Toronto for Vince McMahon for several years. Remarkably, Brian Mackney accomplished all of this as a deaf person, showing that his hearing impairment would not slow him down – he rose above it all and accomplished what many do not.”
Impact
- Overcame deafness and muteness to succeed in pro wrestling.
- Competed internationally in Japan and North America.
- Known for his role in enhancing other talents in major wrestling promotions.
- Honored with a lifetime achievement award for his contributions.
Brian Mackney's career is a testament to determination and breaking barriers, inspiring both fans and fellow wrestlers.
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