For some reason, the image of an obviously enraged Dick the Bruiser all dressed up in a suit and bow tie and sporting stitches in his head seems such an odd combination, that every time I see the picture I smile.

Dick the Bruiser, whose real name was Richard Afflis, was a real-life tough guy. He played professional football and developed a reputation as a bar room brawler. Bruiser was 6' 1" and 260 pounds of muscle, so when his football career ended, it was only natural that he turn to professional wrestling.

Bruiser started his wrestling career in the 50's and wrestled into the 80s! Even after he retired, he worked as a talent scout for the WCW. Bruiser died in 1991 at the age of 62. He left behind a legacy as one of the most popular wrestlers to ever step into the ring.

I was fortunate to see the Bruiser wrestle live many times when I was growing up. Those memories bring an even bigger smile to my face than the picture.