Bob Sweetan

The Bruiser's Legacy Lives On

Bob Sweetan, better known to wrestling fans as KO Cox or Mr. Piledriver, left an indelible mark on the sport during his four-decade career. Born Robert Beier on July 4, 1940, in Canada, Sweetan began his journey in the squared circle in 1965 and spent over two decades honing his craft.

Standing at an imposing 5'10" with a chiseled physique weighing in at 271 lbs, Sweetan was the embodiment of a brawler. His wrestling style was characterized by its brutal honesty – he came to fight, not entertain. The Boston Strangler, as fans affectionately called him, was known for his devastating piledriver, knuckle punch, and elbow drop.

Sweetan's impressive resume includes championships from various promotions, including the Stampede International Tag Team Championship, Wrestle Club Tag Team Championship, WWC Puerto Rico Heavyweight Championship, NWA Central States Heavyweight Championship, and NWA Gulf Coast Heavyweight Championship. His exploits took him across North America, with stops in National Wrestling Alliance, American Wrestling Association, Stampede Wrestling, Universal Wrestling Federation, and Atlantic Grand Prix Wrestling.

Despite his rugged demeanor, Sweetan was a fan favorite due to his authenticity and willingness to put his body on the line for the sake of the performance. He worked tirelessly to perfect his craft, often drawing from his experience in other sports like boxen and football.

As much as Bob Sweetan's accomplishments deserve recognition, it is essential to acknowledge the impact he had beyond the ring. The man behind the mask was a devoted husband, father, and friend, leaving a lasting legacy that transcends his impressive wrestling career.

Sadly, Sweetan passed away on February 10, 2017, but his memory lives on through the countless fans who were inspired by his unwavering dedication to the sport he loved. As we reflect on his life and times, it is clear that Bob Sweetan's legacy will continue to be felt for generations to come.