The Fabulous Moolah Cause of Death: Wrestling Icon’s Passing

The Fabulous Moolah, born Mary Lillian Ellison on July 22, 1923, was a pioneering force in professional wrestling. With a career that spanned more than five decades, she became one of the most influential figures in the sport, especially for women. Known for her strength, resilience, and unmatched skill, Moolah was a trailblazer. However, her life was also marked by personal struggles and health issues. In 2007, she passed away at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire wrestlers today.

Early Life and Entry into Wrestling

Moolah was born in Tookiedoo, South Carolina, the youngest of 13 children. Her passion for physical activities grew from a young age, and she quickly developed an interest in sports. Her love for wrestling began when she was discovered by famed wrestling promoter Billy Wolfe, who offered to train her. This marked the start of her journey in the wrestling world.

She made her debut in the 1940s, adopting the ring name “The Fabulous Moolah,” which would become synonymous with dominance in women’s wrestling.

Rise to Fame in Professional Wrestling

Moolah’s career skyrocketed in 1956 when she won the NWA World Women’s Championship, a title she held for a staggering 30 years. This victory marked the beginning of her dominance in the sport. She became the face of women’s wrestling, not only for her athleticism but also for her charismatic presence in the ring.

Her wrestling style, which mixed technical precision with charisma, earned her respect from both fans and fellow wrestlers. Moolah helped legitimize women’s wrestling, which had often been an afterthought in the male-dominated world of professional wrestling.

Personal Life and Challenges

Despite her success in the ring, Moolah’s personal life was complicated. She married several times, most notably to fellow wrestler Buddy Lee. Their relationship produced one daughter, Mary. While Moolah thrived professionally, her personal relationships were often strained.

Moolah also faced criticism within the wrestling world for allegedly exploiting young wrestlers. She was accused of controlling the careers of female wrestlers and taking a significant portion of their earnings. These controversies created tension between her and some wrestlers, but they didn’t overshadow her success.

Health Struggles and Later Years

As Moolah grew older, her health began to decline. In 1999, she faced serious health issues, including viral pneumonia and clogged arteries. She spent time in intensive care and continued to battle health complications. Despite these setbacks, Moolah remained active in the wrestling community.

She also experienced severe back pain due to crushed vertebrae, which resulted from a fall she took at home. These health problems didn’t prevent her from staying involved in wrestling, where she made occasional appearances and remained an influential figure.

The End of an Era: Moolah’s Passing

On November 2, 2007, The Fabulous Moolah passed away at the age of 84. She died in Columbia, South Carolina, following complications from recent shoulder replacement surgery. It is believed that she suffered a heart attack or a blood clot, common after such procedures.

Her passing marked the end of an era in women’s wrestling. Moolah’s influence was not just confined to her time in the ring; she was a trailblazer who opened doors for countless women in the wrestling world.

Moolah’s Lasting Impact on Women’s Wrestling

Moolah’s contributions to women’s wrestling are immeasurable. She not only helped establish women as credible competitors but also trained several of the most successful female wrestlers in history. Her mentorship extended to stars like Trish Stratus, Lita, and many others, who went on to become legends in the wrestling world.

By training and promoting women, Moolah played a major role in shaping the landscape of modern women’s wrestling. Her impact remains deeply felt in the WWE and beyond, as she proved that women could compete on the same level as men.

Controversies and Challenges During Her Career

While Moolah’s wrestling legacy is undeniable, she was also surrounded by controversy. Critics often pointed to her control over the careers of female wrestlers, accusing her of taking large percentages of their earnings and keeping them in restrictive contracts.

These allegations added complexity to Moolah’s legacy. However, despite these issues, her undeniable talent and contributions to the sport could not be erased. Her ability to keep female wrestlers in the spotlight while maintaining dominance for so long is a testament to her prowess as both a wrestler and a manager.

Conclusion

Moolah’s death in 2007 left a significant void in the wrestling world. Yet her impact continues to reverberate. She paved the way for women’s wrestling to flourish and become a significant part of mainstream professional wrestling.

Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Moolah’s career stands as one of the most important in the history of professional wrestling. Her trailblazing efforts opened doors for future generations of wrestlers, and her legacy lives on in the success of today’s top female talent.