Pete Doherty, better known to old-school wrestling fans as “The Duke of Dorchester,” has died at 85.
The Cauliflower Alley Club shared the news after being informed by Doherty’s friend Danny Davis, marking the loss of one of wrestling’s true throwback characters.
Doherty was a regular face in the WWF during the 1970s and 1980s. He was not usually the guy getting the big title run, but fans knew him. He had that wild personality, that old-school grit, and the kind of presence that made him stand out even when he was there to make someone else look good.
He worked with giants of the business too. Doherty shared the ring with Andre the Giant, Dusty Rhodes, Mil Mascaras, and plenty more during his run. He also picked up some notable wins, including a Bunkhouse Battle Royal victory and a win over Haku at Boston Garden. Doherty even challenged Bob Backlund for the WWF Championship at a house show in 1983.
He was also part of wrestling history. Doherty appeared on the first WWF Saturday Night’s Main Event and later competed in the 1991 King of the Ring tournament, where he lost to Bret Hart in the first round. His last match came in 1992, ending a career that stretched through one of wrestling’s most colorful eras.
The Cauliflower Alley Club remembered Doherty as an unforgettable personality who brought charisma and a larger-than-life attitude to every arena he stepped into.
“As per his friend Danny Davis, The CAC is saddened to hear the unforgettable Pete Doherty has passed away at the age of 85, known to fans everywhere as the Duke of Dorchester. A true character in professional wrestling who brought charisma along with a larger-than-life personality to every arena he stepped into. We send our sincerest condolences to his family and friends.Rest in peace, Duke”
Pete Doherty may not have been the face on the poster, but he was one of those names that helped make the show work. Wrestling needs characters, and “The Duke of Dorchester” was exactly that.
Everyone at Ringside News sends our condolences to Pete Doherty’s family, friends, and everyone who knew him.
What are your favorite memories of Pete Doherty? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
