Dwight Douglas Furnas, better known as Doug Furnas, was an extraordinary professional wrestler who made a significant impact in the wrestling world. Known for his incredible strength and agility, Doug Furnas became a respected name in the pro wrestling circuit during the late 1980s and 1990s. This article explores his life, career, and legacy in wrestling, including some of his best matches and notable achievements.
Doug Furnas was born on December 11, 1959, in Commerce, Oklahoma. From a young age, Doug was involved in sports, showing an exceptional talent for athletics. Before venturing into wrestling, Doug excelled in powerlifting, where he set numerous records. His strength and discipline in powerlifting laid a strong foundation for his wrestling career.
Transition to Professional Wrestling
After achieving considerable success in powerlifting, Doug Furnas transitioned to professional wrestling in the mid-1980s. His athletic background and powerful physique made him a natural fit for the sport. Doug trained rigorously to adapt his skills to the wrestling ring, where he quickly made a name for himself.
![Melissa & Doug Modern Wooden Multi-Level Dollhouse With 19 pcs Furniture [White]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41+JJe1dSSL._SL160_.jpg)
Doug Furnas debuted in the wrestling world with a bang, showcasing his remarkable strength and agility. He became known for his impressive lifting moves and explosive power, which set him apart from other wrestlers of his time.
Rise to Fame
Doug’s wrestling career began to take off in the late 1980s when he joined the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA). His performances in CWA matches were electrifying, and he gained a loyal fan base. During his time in CWA, Doug Furnas faced off against some of the top talents in the industry, establishing himself as a formidable competitor.
Doug Furnas’ Best Matches
One of Doug’s most memorable matches was against Stan Hansen in All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW). The match showcased Doug’s ability to match strength with one of the toughest wrestlers of that era. His battles with Hansen were intense and left a lasting impression on wrestling fans.
Doug Furnas also formed a successful tag team with Phil Lafon (also known as Dan Kroffat). The duo, known for their high-flying moves and technical prowess, competed in various promotions, including World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW). Their match against The Can-Am Express in AJPW is often cited as one of Doug’s best tag team matches.
Contributions to Wrestling
Doug Furnas’ contributions to wrestling extended beyond his matches. He was known for his professionalism and sportsmanship, earning the respect of his peers and fans alike. Doug’s ability to perform at a high level in both singles and tag team competitions made him a versatile and valuable asset to any wrestling promotion.
Doug Furnas’ legacy in wrestling is marked by his incredible athleticism and passion for the sport. His influence can still be seen in the wrestling world today, as many wrestlers have cited him as an inspiration for their careers.
Influence on Future Wrestlers
Doug’s combination of strength and agility set a new standard for heavyweight wrestlers. His ability to perform high-flying maneuvers despite his size was groundbreaking and influenced a generation of wrestlers who followed in his footsteps. Many wrestlers today credit Doug Furnas for inspiring them to push the boundaries of what is possible in the ring.
Personal Life and Tributes
Outside of wrestling, Doug Furnas was known for his humility and kindness. He often participated in charity events and community activities, earning him admiration beyond the wrestling ring. Sadly, Doug Furnas passed away on March 2, 2012, at the age of 52. His passing was mourned by fans and fellow wrestlers worldwide, with many paying tribute to his contributions to wrestling.
Doug Furnas will always be remembered as a trailblazer in professional wrestling. His matches continue to be celebrated by wrestling enthusiasts, and his influence on the sport remains undeniable. Whether through his incredible matches, his sportsmanship, or his contributions to the community, Doug Furnas left an indelible mark on the world of wrestling.
In conclusion, Doug Furnas’ journey from a powerlifting champion to a pro wrestling icon is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. His legacy continues to inspire and shape the wrestling industry, ensuring that his contributions will not be forgotten.
