Collection: Tony Atlas " Mr. USA "

A former bodybuilder turned World Tag Team Champion turned WWE Hall of Famer, "Mr. USA" Tony Atlas is also one of the most influential and significant African-American Superstars in the history of sports-entertainment.

Prior to beginning his in-ring tenure, Atlas had a successful career as a bodybuilder, winning the title of Mr. USA. He also won numerous power lifting and bench press competitions, cementing his reputation as a bona fide strongman. 

After training with Larry Sharpe -- who would also later train such legends as Bam Bam Bigelow and King Kong Bundy at his "Monster Factory" in New Jersey -- Atlas debuted in 1974 in the NWA. Known for his imposing physique and signature Gorilla Press Slam, "Mr. USA" was particularly successful in Georgia early in his career, winning the NWA Georgia Heavyweight, Television and Tag Team Championships. Atlas also won several other regional championships during his time in the NWA.