From Memphis to WWE: The Legendary Journey of Jerry Lawler
When it comes to professional wrestling royalty, few names are as iconic as Jerry Lawler. Known across the wrestling world as Jerry "The King" Lawler, he’s a Hall of Famer, commentator, and in-ring legend who helped shape the golden age of wrestling. From his fiery in-ring feuds to his legendary commentary work in WWE, Lawler’s impact on the business is undeniable.
Whether you're a lifelong fan or just discovering his legacy, this article covers everything you need to know about Jerry Lawler, including his career highlights, health updates, and what makes him “The King.”
Who Is Jerry Lawler?
Jerry Lawler, born on November 29, 1949, in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the most recognized figures in professional wrestling. He earned the nickname “The King” due to his dominance in the Memphis wrestling territory and his famous feud with comedian Andy Kaufman. Over the years, WWE Jerry Lawler became known not just for his championship wins but also for his unique charisma and commentary skills.
The Rise of "The King" in Memphis Wrestling
Before the glitz and glamor of the WWE spotlight, Jerry Lawler King was already a superstar in Memphis. He began his wrestling career in the 1970s and quickly became the face of the territory, thanks to his fierce rivalries, including those with Dutch Mantell, Bill Dundee, and the unforgettable Andy Kaufman.
His feud with Kaufman made mainstream headlines and even landed him a guest spot on “Late Night with David Letterman,” where Lawler slapped Kaufman live on-air. This moment not only elevated Lawler’s profile but also helped bring wrestling into pop culture consciousness.
Jerry Lawler in WWE: From Wrestler to Commentator
Entering the WWE
Although Jerry Lawler didn’t join WWE full-time until the 1990s, he made an immediate impact. While he did wrestle in high-profile matches (including against Bret Hart and Doink the Clown), Lawler became best known in WWE for his commentary work alongside Jim Ross.
Legendary Commentary Career
From the Attitude Era through the Ruthless Aggression Era, WWE Jerry Lawler was the voice behind some of the most memorable moments in wrestling history. His energetic, over-the-top commentary style perfectly complemented Jim Ross’ serious tone, creating a duo fans still miss today.
Championship Legacy of Jerry "The King" Lawler
Although he never held a WWE World Championship, Jerry The King Lawler holds the record for most recognized championships in wrestling history—over 150 titles across various promotions. He was especially dominant in the United States Wrestling Association (USWA), where he held their heavyweight title more than two dozen times.
In 2007, Jerry Lawler was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy as one of the all-time greats.
Health Scares and Comebacks
Jerry Lawler has faced several serious health challenges, including a heart attack on live TV during an episode of Monday Night Raw in 2012. Fortunately, thanks to immediate medical attention, he survived and made a strong recovery. In recent years, Lawler has had a few more health scares, including a stroke in 2023, but continues to remain active in the wrestling community.
Jerry Lawler Today: A Living Legend
Even in his 70s, Jerry Lawler remains a vital figure in the wrestling world. He still appears on WWE programming for special events, pay-per-view panels, and legend reunions. Outside the ring, he’s active in independent wrestling, art (he’s a talented cartoonist), and fan conventions.
He also owns and operates King Jerry Lawler’s Memphis BBQ Company, showing that “The King” is still expanding his empire beyond the squared circle.
Why Fans Still Love Jerry Lawler
Nostalgia and Longevity
Few wrestlers have been in the business as long—and stayed relevant—as Jerry Lawler. Fans of all ages remember his commentary from the Attitude Era or his championship reigns in the '80s and '90s.
Charisma and Humor
Whether in the ring or behind the mic, Lawler always had a unique flair. His quick wit, infamous one-liners, and larger-than-life persona made him a favorite among fans and peers alike.
Contributions to Wrestling Culture
Without Jerry The King Lawler, the wrestling world might look very different today. His influence extends across promotions, generations, and continents.
The Reign of Jerry “The King” Lawler Continues
Jerry Lawler isn’t just a wrestler or a commentator—he’s a living legend whose contributions to the sport will be remembered for decades to come. From his early days dominating Memphis to his unforgettable run in WWE, Jerry The King Lawler has truly earned his crown.
As long as wrestling exists, there will always be a throne for "The King."
Yankees Predicted to Steal $43 Million Pitcher From Division Rival
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Yankees predicted to land former Red Sox starter.
The New York Yankees are predicted to sign a starting pitcher away from their arch-rival Boston Red Sox.
New York has a need in the rotation with Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon both set to miss the beginning of the season. Although the Yankees‘ rotation is led by Max Fried, New York will look to sign a No. 4 or No. 5 starter for depth.
MLB insider Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report predicts the Yankees will sign Lucas Giolito to a two-year, $43 million deal with a $20 million club option for 2028.
“Lucas Giolito did not receive a qualifying offer from the Red Sox, which should help to improve his murky free-agent stock,” Kelly wrote. “On one hand, he was tremendous for the Red Sox this season, posting a 3.41 ERA across 145 innings after an internal brace procedure on his right elbow forced him to miss the entirety of the 2024 season. On the other hand, Giolito does have a major surgery in the not-so-distant past and a right elbow injury forced him to miss the ALWCS. …
“The Yankees—who have an ace in Max Fried, and hope Gerrit Cole will resemble one when he returns from Tommy John surgery—are looking more for a middle of the rotation arm. Jon Heyman of
Giolito went 10-4 with a 3.41 ERA in 26 starts last season with the Red Sox. The right-hander leaving Boston for the Yankees would only add to their rivalry in 2026.
Giolito Claims He’s Fully Healthy
Gioltio ended the season injured as he was unable to pitch in the playoffs.
However, after suffering the elbow injury, Giolito began rehabbing. He has since appeared on the Baseball Isn’t Boring podcast with Rob Bradford and claimed he’s healthy.
“Within three days, my elbow felt 100% fine again. ..,” Giolito said. “There’s no injury. Whatever injury there was, it’s gone. It was like a weird freak thing that just popped up at the worst possible time.”
Giolito, meanwhile, wasn’t surprised that the Red Sox didn’t offer him a qualifying offer due to the injury.
“I wasn’t banking on it,” Giolito said. “I was pretty sure I wasn’t gonna get it. Because I ended the year injured. That’s how it works. You end the year hurt; you’re not in a good spot to command a qualifying offer or whatever. So moving on.
“I thought it was obvious. I went into this offseason knowing full well I’d be a free agent. You end the year hurt; it puts a bad taste in the team’s mouth. It is what it is. The fortunate part was that it was like the most benign, weird freak injury that went away after a few days.”
Giolito was an All-Star in 2019.
Yankees Roster Moves Could Take Some Time
New York was eliminated in the ALDS by the Toronto Blue Jays.
Entering the offseason, the Yankees have plenty of questions surrounding their roster. New York is hopeful to re-sign some key players as well as add other players, which GM Brian Cashman said will take time.
I’m staying connected via phone with other clubs and agents,” Cashman said via Zoom at the GM Meetings. “You gather as much early information (as possible), but it seems like what usually plays out is, it’s going to take some time. Once we start heading to the Winter Meetings in Orlando, hopefully we’ll have a pretty clear definition of what’s going on.”
The Yankees are looking to win their first World Series since 2009.
