Blackjack Lanza Absent At 86

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

Are from WWE.com:

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

Also from WWE.com:

Blackjacks are one of the most notorious and ruthless poker teams ever. They are two tough Texans who can protect their intimidating appearance by relentlessly attacking and breaking rules.

Blackjack Mulligan is a 6 foot 9 brute, 340 pounds, of Sweetwater origin. In addition to numerous regional championships, Mulligan is also NWA World Tag Team Champion (with Ric Flair), NWA USA Heavyweight Champion, and NWA World Heavyweight Champion, beating the WWE Hall of Famer Bobo Brazil . Mulligan also had many memorable battles with WWE Hall of Famer Andre the Giant, as well as matches against Pedro Morales and Bruno Sammartino.

Jack Lanza, with his devastating Iron Claw, is the mean and brutal man in the ring. Superstar AWA was once considered “the embodiment of evil”. A native of Laredo, Texas, made his debut in 1962 and achieved early success under the guidance of Bobby Heenan. With Heenan by 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 others.

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

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