However, Graham's lasting effect on the business extended far beyond just being the first WWE 'villain' to hold the WWE Championship for an extended period – he was one of the first larger-than-life 'characters' in wrestling history. Superstar held the title for nearly a year, successfully defending sports entertainment's richest prize against icons like Dusty Rhodes, Gorilla Monsoon, and 'High Chief' Peter Maivia before being dethroned by Bob Backlund in controversial fashion.'Īs one of the only two men in history to defeat Bruno Sammartino for the WWE Championship (along with Ivon Koloff), Billy Graham was always destined to go down in the history books as one of the most remarkable men to lace up a pair of boots. WWE May 18, 2023Īccording to WWE.com, Graham's most outstanding achievement went down on April 30, 1977, when he 'accomplished the near-impossible feat of toppling Bruno Sammartino from his WWE Championship perch.

We extend our condolences to Graham's family, friends, and fans.

WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer 'Superstar' Billy Graham has passed away.

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