Cowboy Bob Ellis, who was believed to be the oldest living professional wrestler, was found to have actually died seven years ago.
News of Ellis’ passing originally popped up on social media. One user shared a screenshot of his online obituary, which listed his death as December 21, 2018. The user said the information was also verified by Ellis’ great granddaughters.
Reaction to the news was one of shock. People like Jim Cornette wondered how Ellis’ death didn’t make the news in 2018. Furthermore, people asked how no one seemed to know about it until now.
Prior to the news, Ellis was assumed to be the oldest living wrestler. Ellis, born on March 15, 1929, began his wrestling career in 1957, debuting in Denver, Colorado as Bob Elliott. Ellis would go on to change his name to “Cowboy” Bob, and won his first title, the NWA Central States Heavyweight Championship, in 1958. His wrestling career spanned decades, with Ellis eventually retiring in 1980.
Throughout his career, Ellis was a highly decorated champion. The star owned titles in promotions like American Wrestling Alliance, Big Time Wrestling, Central States Wrestling, Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling, NWA, World Championship Wrestling, and more. He is also a member of the St. Louis Wrestling Hall of Fame.
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