Mae Young

In the world of professional wrestling, few women have left a mark as indelible as Mae Young. Born Johnnie Mae Young on March 12, 1923, in Sand Springs, Oklahoma, this feisty femme fatale would go on to carve out a career that spanned over six decades and earned her the nickname "The Matriarch of the Mat."

Standing at 5'4" and weighing in at a sturdy 181 pounds, Young's diminutive stature belied her fierce determination and unyielding spirit. She began her wrestling journey in the early 1940s, competing under various ring names including Marie Young and Johnnie Mae Young.

Young's signature move, the Bronco Buster, became an iconic part of her arsenal, leaving opponents reeling as she charged into them with reckless abandon. Her reputation as a formidable force in the ring preceded her, striking fear into the hearts of even the most seasoned grapplers.

Throughout her illustrious career, Young faced off against some of the greatest wrestlers of all time, including the likes of Mildred Burke, Wendi Richter, and Sherri Martel. She was a trailblazer for women's wrestling, paving the way for generations of female competitors to follow in her footsteps.

Young's legacy extends far beyond her impressive in-ring accomplishments. Her influence can be seen in the countless women who have followed in her footsteps, drawing inspiration from her unwavering dedication and unrelenting passion for the sport.

Though Mae Young passed away on January 14, 2014, at the age of 90, her impact on professional wrestling remains as strong as ever. As "The Queen" of the mat, she reigns supreme in the annals of wrestling history, a testament to the enduring power of her indomitable spirit.

In a sport often marked by controversy and drama, Mae Young's story stands out as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us all that with hard work, determination, and a refusal to back down, even the most unlikely individual can leave an indelible mark on the world.