“The Flying Greek” Mike Pappas has passed away.
Pappas (real name Manoli Savvenas) lost his battle with colorectal cancer at the age of 81, according to Jason Braiser. Braiser directed “The Flying Greek”, a documentary about Pappas’ life and career that premiered in 2021.
It is with great sadness that I have to inform everyone that Manoli Savvenas, Aka Mike Pappas the Flying Greek has lost his battle with colorectal cancer.
I am thankful to have known Manoli and that I was able to get to know his family and admirers through our documentary. pic.twitter.com/JxIzR0AkuY— Jason Brasier (@JasonBrasier) January 1, 2023
Pappas was known for his work with the WWWF in the early 1970s; he memorably took promotional pictures with Andre the Giant to showcase the size differential, as Pappas was roughly 5-foot-9. He also competed in the northeast independent wrestling scene. Following his retirement in 1978, he opened a jewelry store in Missouri.
Sorry to hear about Mike Pappas. We were friends way back in early 70s during his stint in WWWF. What a gentle,extraordinary person. I took plenty of photos of Mike w Andre. The comparison between the two made for a great photo. RIP my friend. Ill never forget our time together
— George Napolitano (@Starshot9) January 2, 2023
On behalf of WrestleZone, we send our condolences to Pappas’ family, friends, and fans.
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