Blackjack Lanza Passes Away At Age 86

We have some sad news to report today as WWE Hall of Famer, Blackjack Lanza, has passed away at the age of 86.

[Blackjack] Jack Lanza was a man’s man, respected and beloved by all. He loved and worked for WWE for many years. His loyalty and dedication will never be forgotten.

Also from WWE.com:

The Blackjacks were one of the most infamous and merciless tag teams ever. They were two tough Texans who could back up their intimidating look with relentless offense and rule-breaking.

Blackjack Mulligan was a brutish 6-foot-9, 340-pound native of Sweetwater. In addition to many regional championships, Mulligan was NWA World Tag Team Champion (with Ric Flair), NWA United States Heavyweight Champion and NWA World Heavyweight champion, defeating WWE Hall of Famer Bobo Brazil. Mulligan also had many memorable battles with WWE Hall of Famer Andre the Giant, as well as matches with Pedro Morales and Bruno Sammartino.

Jack Lanza, with his devastating Iron Claw, was mean and sadistic in the ring. The AWA superstar was once referred to as “the embodiment of evil.” The Laredo, Texas, native made his debut in 1962 and achieved early success under the tutelage of Bobby Heenan. With Heenan at his side, Lanza & Bobby Duncum won the AWA World Tag Team Championship from Dick the Bruiser and The Crusher. Lanza also had memorable battles with WWE Hall of Famer “Big Cat” Ernie Ladd, among many others.

While both Mulligan and Lanza had stellar singles careers, they seemed destined to join one another and formed the infamous Blackjacks tag team in the 1970s. Along with their manager, Bobby “The Brain” Heenan, they won championships everywhere they competed.