WWE Hall of Famer Blackjack Lanza Passes Away Aged 86
The wrestling world has come together to grieve the loss and celebrate the life of wrestling legend Blackjack Lanza who has died at the age of 86.
Fellow WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross revealed the news of Lanza’s death on December 8th, saying that he was a “helluva hand”.
“Just heard from old, Winnipeg friend Bob Holliday that Jack Lanza has passed away at the age of 86. Jack was our lead agent during the Attitude Era. Helluva hand.”
Tributes for Blackjack Lanza have poured in since the news was broken, with the likes of William Regal, Mick Foley, and Sean Waltman all posting their condolences. WWE Chairman Vince McMahon released a statement praising the former WWE agent.
Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Jack Lanza. He was a man’s man, respected and beloved by all. He worked for and loved WWE for many years. His loyalty and dedication will never be forgotten.
— Vince McMahon (@VinceMcMahon) December 8, 2021
Jack Lanza was trained by the legendary wrestling promoter, Verne Gagne, and began his career in 1961. He started off working in St Louis, before appearing for Gagne’s own promotion, the AWA, the following year. During his time there, he teamed with Bobby Duncan under the management of Bobby Heenan.
The height of Lanza’s time in the ring came in the 1970s when, once again managed by Heenan, he teamed up with Blackjack Mulligan. The duo, known as The Blackjacks, won Tag Team Championships in multiple promotions, including the predecessor to WWE, the WWWF in 1975.
The two parted ways in 1984, with Blackjack Lanza retiring the following year. After his retirement, Lanza returned to WWE as a road agent and producer for several years. He and Blackjack Mulligan were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2006.
We here at TJR Wrestling would like to send our condolences to the friends and family of Blackjack Lanza.