Pez Whatley

The Black Bullet's Lasting Impact

Pez Whatley, the man known to many as Shaska Whatley or Willie B. Hart, was a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional wrestling. His towering presence and devastating moves left opponents reeling, and fans in awe.

Born Peter Whatley on January 10th, 1951, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Pez Whatley's journey into the squared circle began in the early 1970s. Weighing in at a formidable 245 pounds, Whatley brought a level of physicality to his matches that was unmatched by many of his contemporaries.

Whatley's wrestling style was all-encompassing – he was an all-rounder who could deliver high-flying moves like the Flying Willie (a diving headbutt) with precision and power. His arsenal also included crushing elbow drops and dropkicks, which left opponents writhing in agony.

Throughout his career, Whatley competed in some of the biggest promotions in the world, including World Wrestling Entertainment, New Japan Pro Wrestling, World Championship Wrestling, All Japan Pro Wrestling, and National Wrestling Alliance. The list of championships he won is impressive – NWA Southern Heavyweight Championship, NWA Western States Tag Team Championship, NWA Mid- America Tag Team Championship, and ICW United States Tag Team Championship, to name a few.

Despite his many accomplishments, Whatley's legacy was not without its challenges. Like many wrestlers of his era, he faced numerous injuries and health issues throughout his career. And in the end, it was a heart condition that would ultimately take his life on January 18th, 2005.

Whatley's last match took place on September 17th, 1998 – a fitting end to a storied career that spanned over two decades. As he rode off into the sunset, fans and fellow wrestlers alike remembered the Black Bullet for his unbridled intensity, devastating moves, and unwavering dedication to the sport he loved.

In the world of professional wrestling, few leave as lasting an impact as Pez Whatley – a true original who left it all in the ring.