Before becoming a legendary WWE star, Ron Simmons carved his name in the history books on August 2nd, 1992 by defeating Big Van Vader to become the first-ever African American to hold a major world championship in professional wrestling.
College Football Star Turns to Wrestling
After a standout football career at Florida State, Simmons turned to professional wrestling in 1987, forming the tag team Doom in WCW. Alongside partner Butch Reed, Simmons found major success, capturing the WCW World Tag Team Titles.
Big Break Leads to Historic Victory
In 1992, Simmons was thrust into the main event after Sting was injured prior to a scheduled title match against monster heel Big Van Vader. In a raffle to determine a new #1 contender, Simmons got his big shot.
To the shock of the Baltimore crowd, Simmons hit his signature spinebuster to pin Vader and make history as the first black WCW World Champion.
Title Reign Cut Short
Sadly, Simmons’ groundbreaking title run only lasted 5 months before losing back to Vader. However, Simmons takes great pride in breaking barriers, later stating the world title “means everything” despite critics citing his run as a failure.
Lasting Legacy
While never winning world gold again, Simmons became a cornerstone of WWE’s Attitude Era as leader of the Nation of Domination and APA tag team.
Simmons’ 1992 triumph opened the door for future black world champions like Booker T and The Rock. Breaking racial barriers in wrestling remains Simmons’ crowning career achievement.
