Collection: Ivan Putski : The Polish Hammer

The Polish Hammer

WWF Hall of Famer Ivan Putski was one of the most popular wrestlers in the late 1970s and early 1980s. His chiseled physique and great charisma made him a fan favorite for years. His Polish heritage made him especially popular with the immigrant population of the northeast pasrt of the country, where he wrestled for the WW(W)F for many years. Putski was born in Kraków, Poland, in 1941. His family moved to the United States when he was 9 years old. He originally aspired to be a football player, but an injury forced him out of that sport and helped open the door to his wrestling career. He started out in the wrestling business in the early 1970s, sporting a beard and a less impressive physique. While still extremely powerful, being mostly a power-lifter during these years, he did not sport the ripped body that he was known for later in his career. His strength gained him the moniker "Polish Power". He won several titles throughout the country earlier in his career, many of which were won by using his patented finishing move, the Polish Hammer.