The Incredible Story of Martin Burns: From Champion Wrestler to Carnival Showman
Have you ever heard of a man named Martin Burns? He was a legendary wrestler from the late 1800s and early 1900s who won the world championship title not once, but three times! However, his story didn’t end there. Following his wrestling career, he became a carnival showman, performing feats of strength that amazed audiences all over the country. Let’s take a closer look at the incredible story of Martin Burns.
Early Life
Martin Burns was born in Cedar County, Iowa, in 1861. He grew up on a farm and started doing manual labor at a young age, which helped build his strength. He was also an accomplished athlete, participating in various sports such as baseball, track and field, and wrestling.
Wrestling Career
Martin Burns started his wrestling career in the early 1880s and quickly became known for his strength and skill. He won his first world championship title in 1895 by defeating Evan “Strangler” Lewis. He went on to win the title two more times, in 1897 and 1905.
Not only was Martin Burns a successful wrestler, but he was also a trainer and promoter. He trained many wrestlers who went on to become champions themselves, and he also organized wrestling events and competitions.
Carnival Showman
Following his wrestling career, Martin Burns became a carnival showman. He performed various feats of strength, such as lifting horses and elephants, and bending steel bars with his teeth. He became known as the “Old Master” and was a popular attraction at carnivals and fairs all over the country.
Legacy
Martin Burns passed away in 1937, but his legacy lives on. He was inducted into the Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1954 and has been remembered as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time.
FAQs
Q: How many times did Martin Burns win the world championship title?
A: Martin Burns won the world championship title three times, in 1895, 1897, and 1905.
Q: Did Martin Burns train any other successful wrestlers?
A: Yes, Martin Burns trained many wrestlers who went on to become champions themselves.
Q: What kind of feats of strength did Martin Burns perform as a carnival showman?
A: Martin Burns performed various feats of strength, such as lifting horses and elephants, and bending steel bars with his teeth.
Q: What was Martin Burns known as?
A: Martin Burns became known as the “Old Master” during his time as a carnival showman.
Q: How is Martin Burns remembered today?
A: Martin Burns is remembered as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time and was inducted into the Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1954.
Q: When did Martin Burns pass away?
A: Martin Burns passed away in 1937.
Q: Where did Martin Burns grow up?
A: Martin Burns grew up in Cedar County, Iowa.
Conclusion
The incredible story of Martin Burns shows how hard work, dedication, and perseverance can lead to success in any field. From his humble beginnings on a farm in Iowa to winning world championship titles as a wrestler, and then becoming a carnival showman, Martin Burns left a lasting legacy that inspires others to this day. Whether you’re a fan of wrestling or just appreciate a good underdog story, Martin Burns’ story is worth remembering and celebrating.