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In the 1930s and 1940s New Zealand wrestling was dominated by North American wrestlers, almost exclusively heavyweights. It was difficult for New Zealand wrestlers, especially the lighter men, to break into the business at home. The solution for many was to travel abroad, often to Australia, but sometimes much further afield.
In 1940s Britain although heavyweights were the big draws there were various weight classes and opportunities for wrestlers of all weights. Lawrence Russell Bishop who had been born in the North Island town of Levin on 24th April, 1927, was one of those undervalued lighter men and twenty-two years old when he made the trip to Britain in 1949, along with fellow New Zealanders Ray Clarke and Bob Russell.
Russ Bishop, as he was known in wrestling circles, made his British debut on 7th November, 1949, wrestling a draw with Len Britton in Bedford. With an impressive physique and good wrestling ability he was soon accepted by British fans and was booked as regular opposition for the likes of Tommy Mann, Joe D’Orazio, College Boy and a wide range of top British wrestlers. Of the three Kiwis it was Bishop that made the most favourable impression.
Russ Bishop worked in Britain for around two years. After leaving Britain to return home in 1951 Russ and his fellow New Zealanders stopped off to wrestle in the United States and Mexico, doing particularly well in the latter where smaller wrestlers were popular.
Russ Bishop died in Auckland City Hospital on 6th October, 2015, aged 88.
Page added 24/07/2024
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