Retired Professional Wrestler Augustus Duke died on Thursday at the age of 73.
Duke died of liver and kidney failure as well as a brain aneurysm which he battled with for years. First responders found him dead in his home in Boston, MA after a call was made by his neighbors concerning noises that they had heard coming from his home earlier that day.
Duke, a German refugee, fled to America with his family for a better life. He worked hard to provide for his wife and children throughout his career and never sought money if not to provide for those who he loved and cherished.
Duke was the inaugural ICWA Heavyweight Champion and is still remembered as one of the belt's greatest holders. He made his pro debut in 1962 competing on the American territories before joining the newly established ICWA in 1967.
Best remembered for his historic match with fellow legend Sultan Gazsi in Madison Square Garden and for his contributions to the rise of catch wrestling during his career. He trained many notable wrestlers in the art of catch wrestling including both Michael Kelly and Robert Martyr.
In honor of Duke's life, career and his contributions to wrestling, ICWA has organized the Catch as Catch Can Wrestling event at the Boston Opera House, headlined by Robert Martyr vs Michael Kelly, the preceding's of which will go to covering the funeral cost.
Written By: Andrew Brown
Twitter: @TodayInCAW and @AndrewBrownTIC
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