Wrestling Veteran Mike Pappas Passes Away At Age 83

The wrestling business has seen legends who made the sport highly popular back in the early days. The contributions of these pioneers have paved the way for the superstars of today to make their careers in professional wrestling. However, it is sad to learn that recently, one such wrestling veteran Mike Pappas has passed away.

Mike Pappas trained in the art of wrestling in Rhodes, Greece before making a move to America. He was an active competitor from 1968 until 1978. He was smaller than other wrestlers at the time, worked on the undercard of WWWF, and was highly regarded for his high-flying style.

The man who was known as the ‘The Flying Greek’ lost his battle to colorectal cancer recently. Mike Pappas’s death was announced on Twitter by Jason Braiser, the man who directed a documentary about the high-flying superstar, passing away at the age of 83.

“It is with great sadness that I have to inform everyone that Manoli Savvenas, Aka Mike Pappas the Flying Greek has lost his battle with colorectal cancer. I am thankful to have known Manoli and that I was able to get to know his family and admirers through our documentary.”

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Mike Pappas took retirement from active competition in 1978. He then opened a jewelry store run by himself and his wife Valerie. Ringside News extends its heartfelt condolences to Mike Pappas’s family.

Do you think legends like Mike Pappas paved the way for smaller wrestlers? Sound off in the comments!