The wrestling world is mourning the loss of veteran star Phil Hickerson.
The Cauliflower Alley Club confirmed that Hickerson passed away at the age of 79 and shared a message honoring the longtime Memphis wrestling figure and respected tough man inside the business. In their statement, the organization reflected on Hickerson’s reputation throughout the wrestling industry and offered condolences to those closest to him.
“The wrestling world has lost one of its true tough men. Today we say goodbye to Phil Hickerson, who has passed away at the age of 79. Our condolences to family, friends and fans around the world. Rest easy, sir… and thank you for the memories.”
Hickerson was known to wrestling fans under several names throughout his career, including “PY Chu-Hi” and “Mr. Nashville.” He originally broke into the wrestling business in 1974 and competed steadily until 1980 before injuries forced him to step away from the ring.
After taking time away from wrestling to recover, Hickerson made his return in 1984 and continued competing through 1991. He later wrestled his final matches in 1995 for the USWA in Memphis, Tennessee. That same year, Hickerson received one of the biggest honors of his career when he was inducted into the Memphis Wrestling Hall of Fame, cementing his place in the territory’s history.
Hickerson became well known throughout the Memphis wrestling scene for his rugged style and hard-nosed persona, earning respect from fans and fellow wrestlers alike during his years in the business.
His passing marks another loss for the old-school generation of wrestling veterans who helped shape territorial wrestling during one of the industry’s most memorable eras.
What are your favorite memories of Phil Hickerson and Memphis wrestling during that era? Leave your thoughts and tributes in the comments below.
