Profiles
Franklin J. Lewis
Where Homer had his Iliad, GWA had Franklin J. Lewis—a silver-tongued scholar who transformed wrestling matches into epic sagas, his voice turning clotheslines into classical literature.
Expansion Era (1969-1975)
From Rio Grande to Redwoods. (January 1, 1969 – December 1, 1975) GWA's ambitious growth period pushing beyond regional boundaries with a focus on inclusion and cross-cultural integration. Core value: Inclusion.
Profiles
"The Outlaw" Jesse Hawkins
In the lawless frontier of the GWA, one man stood apart— Outlaw Hawkins. Part rebel, part folk hero, he rode into arenas on a wave, tipping his black Stetson to a roaring crowd. With fists of iron and a will of steel, Hawkins fought not just opponents, but the very idea of conformity.
Profiles
"Wild Rose" Mary Sullivan
In the rough-and-tumble world of 1970s GWA, "Wild Rose" Mary Sullivan was like a force of nature. This fiery Irish-American brawler from Butte, Montana brought grit, chaos, and an indomitable spirit to the ring, captivating fans with her unpredictable style and unfiltered charm.
Profiles
The Phantom
From the unforgiving Montana wilderness emerged The Phantom, a vengeful spirit of frontier justice. Once betrayed and left for dead, Einar Koskinen rose as an enigmatic force in the GWA. With piercing blue eyes and cryptic words, he embodied the untamed West, haunting both rivals and fans alike.
Profiles
"Railroad" Rick Rhodes
Meet "Railroad" Rick Rhodes, the blue-collar hero of the GWA. Hailing from Pittsburgh's steel mills, Rick embodies resilience and grit. Standing at 6'2" and 250 lbs, his relentless spirit and iconic tagline, "Chugging through challenges, unstoppable force," make him a fan favorite.
Profiles
"Peaceful" Pete Donovan
Step into the ring with "Peaceful" Pete Donovan, the GWA's grooviest grappler! This tie-dye-clad hippie from San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury brought love, peace, and submission holds to the mat. Get ready for a far-out journey through the career of wrestling's most unconventional hero.
Profiles
Jake Hipp "The Blackfoot Brawler"
A towering symbol of Indigenous strength in the GWA. This Siksika warrior brought raw power and ancestral wisdom to the ring, fighting not just for victories, but for his people's recognition. Hipp's journey from the plains to stardom inspired a generation and changed wrestling forever.
Profiles
"Lonestar" Lucy Grant
Meet "Lonestar" Lucy Grant, the trailblazing GWA Women's Champion from Silver Star Mesa Ranch, Texas. Known for her championship attitude, unwavering determination, and empowering presence, Lucy broke barriers and inspired fans with her grace, strength, and heartfelt patriotism.
Profiles
Rosie the Riveting
Basic Information Name: Rosalita "Rosie" Mendoza del Rosario Nickname: Rosie the Riveting Origin: San Diego, California Height: 6'3" Weight: 243 pounds Finishing Move: Factory Finish Entrance Music: "Proud Mary" by Tina Turner Background Rosie the Riveting, a powerhouse Latina wrestler, embodied the spirit
Profiles
Dharma Bums
Meet The Dharma Bums, "Boxcar" Bo Bradley and Redwoods Carson blend Beatnik wisdom with rugged charm. Known for their technical prowess and philosophical musings, they captivate fans with their signature moves and deep connection. Ride the rails with the unforgettable Dharma Bums!
Articles
Reflections on Soul Power (1982)
In this special edition of the Grapple Gazette, we celebrate the 10th anniversary of Soul Power Olympic Brawl. Enjoy vivid storytelling and fantasy-inspired artwork that honor the iconic wrestlers and unforgettable moments of that historic night.
Profiles
Spike Striker
In the electrifying world of the Great Western Wrestling Alliance (GWA), Spike Striker stands out as a master of espionage and theatrics, captivating audiences since his debut in 1966. Emerging from the shadows of the Cold War, this former CIA agent blends spy tactics with wrestling prowess, making every match