Bad News Allen

Bad News Allen was a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional wrestling. Born Allen James Coage on October 22, 1943, in New York City, he would go on to become one of the most feared and respected wrestlers of his generation.

Growing up on the tough streets of Brooklyn, Coage was always drawn to physical activity. He began training in Judo at a young age, eventually earning a black belt before turning his attention to Aikido. But it was wrestling that would ultimately consume him, and he would adopt the moniker Bad News Allen to reflect the rough-and-tumble style he brought to the ring.

Coage's professional wrestling career got off to a rocky start, with stints in various independent promotions and territories throughout the 1970s. But it was his work in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) - now known as WWE - that would bring him national attention.

As Bad News Brown, Coage became a fan favorite for his intense matches and brutal finishing moves, including the Ghettoblaster and Headbutt. His rugged, no-nonsense approach earned him a reputation as one of the toughest men in the business.

The 1980s were Allen's prime years, as he continued to dominate the WWF scene. His feuds with the likes of Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, and Andre the Giant are still talked about among wrestling aficionados today.

But as his career began to wind down, Coage found himself struggling to find a place in the rapidly changing professional wrestling landscape. He would continue to work sporadically throughout the 1990s, eventually retiring on May 20, 1999.

Bad News Allen may not have been a household name, but he left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. His tough-as-nails approach and devastating moves will always be remembered as a key part of the sport's golden age.

Sadly, Coage's life would come to a tragic end in 2007, when he passed away at the age of 63 due to complications from heart failure. But his legacy lives on, and Bad News Allen remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in professional wrestling history.