In the thrilling world of professional wrestling, referees are more than mere rule enforcers; they are essential characters in a complex narrative. Famous wrestling referees have shaped unforgettable moments, and controversial decisions, and even influenced the outcomes of legendary matches. From the heel referee gimmicks to the iconic decisions that have sparked debates, the role of a referee extends far beyond the ring. Their unique career paths, contributions to wrestling organizations, and the controversies they’ve been part of, all add layers to the sport’s storytelling. This article delves into the multifaceted world of wrestling referees, exploring their impact, legacy, and the unforgettable moments they’ve created.
Current Famous Wrestling Referees
Unique Career Arcs
Wrestling referees are often the unsung heroes of the ring, ensuring that matches are conducted fairly and according to the rules. However, some have managed to break the stereotype and stand out, even sharing the ring with iconic athletes.
Danny Davis
Danny Davis’s career is a prime example of a unique arc in the world of wrestling. Starting as a referee with WWE in 1981, he transitioned into a double role, competing as a masked wrestler, Mr. X, while still serving as a full-time referee. Davis’s heel act as WWE’s original crooked referee made him famous, favoring heel wrestlers and quickly disqualifying babyfaces. This led to his transformation into “Dangerous” Danny Davis, joining Jimmy Hart’s Hart Foundation. By 1989, Davis’s heel act had run its course, and he returned to being an unbiased referee until leaving the company in 1995.
Charles Robinson
Charles Robinson, a lifelong pro wrestling and Ric Flair fan joined WCW in 1997 and was thrust into the role of a heel referee. Known as “Little Naitch,” Robinson aligned with Ric Flair and the Four Horsemen. His heel referee gimmick peaked at Slamboree 1999, but eventually, Robinson returned to calling matches fairly. He joined WWE in 2001 and has been a mainstay, officiating marquee matches, including Ric Flair’s and Shawn Michaels’ retirements at WrestleMania.
Tim White
Tim White’s career as a WWE referee started in the late ’80s, and he was part of the first SummerSlam ever. A serious shoulder injury during a Hell In A Cell match between Chris Jericho and Triple H at Judgment Day in 2002 sidelined him for several months. After re-injuring his shoulder at WrestleMania XX, White’s referee career ended. He later returned to a minor on-screen role in a distasteful series of vignettes.
Scott Armstrong
Scott Armstrong, a former wrestler, became a referee for WCW in the early 2000s. He joined WWE in 2006 and quickly became a senior referee, officiating high-profile matches like the WrestleMania 25 main event between Randy Orton and Triple H. Armstrong played a role in a screwjob angle at the 2009 Breaking Point pay-per-view, leading to a storyline involving CM Punk.
Mark Curtis (Brian Hildebrand)
Mark Curtis, whose real name was Brian Hildebrand, broke into the wrestling business in 1984 as a manager. He ran in Smokey Mountain Wrestling and ECW before landing in WCW. Known as “The Shooter” after stopping a rowdy fan from interfering, Curtis was one of the most beloved wrestling figures of the ’90s. Tragically, he passed away in 1999 after losing his battle with cancer.
Nick Patrick
Nick Patrick redefined the heel referee role in the ’90s. As WCW’s senior referee, he became the official nWo referee, turning a blind eye to their cheating. After WCW’s purchase by WWE, Patrick reprised his heel referee schtick for a bit but eventually became an impartial referee until his WWE departure in 2008.
Legendary Referees
“Red Shoes” Unno
The legend of Hiroyuki Unno, affectionately called “Red Shoes Unno,” began in 1985. Starting as a member of the ring crew for All Japan Pro Wrestling, Unno made his refereeing debut in 1988. He joined NJPW in 2001, and by 2002, he was the promotion’s lead referee. Known for his red attire, including red shoes, Unno has become a symbol of refereeing excellence in New Japan Pro Wrestling.
Hebner Legacy
The name “Hebner” is synonymous with pro wrestling referees. Dave and Earl Hebner, twin referees, were top-notch officials in the 1980s. Dave Hebner officiated some of the most famous matches, including Ricky Steamboat vs. Randy Savage at WrestleMania III. His most memorable moment came in 1988 during the WrestleMania III rematch of Andre The Giant and WWE Champion, Hulk Hogan, where his twin brother Earl was used as an imposter. Dave’s legacy as an all-time great is safely secured.
Mike Chioda
Mike Chioda debuted his referee career in 1989 and climbed the ladder, officiating in mid-card matches at big events like Survivor Series and WrestleMania. He refereed historical matches like the WrestleMania 14 main event between Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels. Chioda became a head referee in 2002 and has officiated many high-profile matches, including Batista vs. Triple H at WrestleMania 21.
Dick Kroll
Dick Kroll started his career in 1960 and became one of the most prominent referees in pro wrestling history. He was assigned to almost all of the WWWF/WWF’s Madison Square Garden cards from 1960 to 1985, including the first WrestleMania. Kroll was the official in countless classics, including the 1971 upset when Ivan Koloff ended Bruno Sammartino’s record reign.
Joey Marella
Joey Marella, Gorilla Monsoon’s son, was a top WWF referee in the mid-’80s and early ’90s. He officiated the biggest match in pro wrestling history, the Andre/Hogan encounter at WrestleMania III, and other classic matches like Davey Boy Smith vs. Bret Hart at SummerSlam 1992.
Jim Korderas
Jim Korderas was a top WWE referee from 1987 to 2009, officiating on most of the biggest pay-per-views, including the inaugural Survivor Series and several WrestleMania. He was the assigned referee for the tragic match between Owen Hart and The Godfather at Over The Edge 1999.
Earl Hebner
Earl Hebner, infamous for his role during the Montreal Screwjob in 1997, was one of the few to know what was about to happen before the events. He officiated in many historical main events and became a head referee, leading various storylines, including the referees’ strike angle in 1999.
Tommy Young
Tommy Young’s journey started in 1971 as a wrestler before joining Jim Crockett Promotions and the NWA as a full-time referee in 1975. By the ’80s, Young was the senior referee for Jim Crockett Promotions, officiating big-time matches, including classics involving “Nature Boy” Ric Flair. A career-altering neck injury in 1989 forced him to retire, but Young remains the referee most closely associated with the NWA.
Best Previous and Retired Wrestling Referees
Hebner Legacy
The Hebner family’s legacy in professional wrestling is unparalleled, with Dave Hebner being a significant part of that legacy.
Dave Hebner
Dave Hebner, like his twin brother Earl, has been a top-notch official in the 1980s. He officiated some of the most famous matches, including Ricky Steamboat vs. Randy Savage at WrestleMania III. His most memorable moment came in 1988 during the WrestleMania III rematch of Andre The Giant and WWE Champion, Hulk Hogan, where his twin brother Earl was used as an imposter.
The Hebner brothers’ impact on professional wrestling is profound. They have been part of some of the most significant moments in wrestling history, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to be celebrated by fans and professionals alike.
Anomalies in Refereeing
Refereeing in professional wrestling is not always straightforward. There have been several anomalies and unique characters that have added flavor to the role of a referee.
Jack Doan
Jack Doan started with WWE in 1991 and became a full-time referee in 1992. He was part of many significant matches, including the main event of WrestleMania X8 between Triple H and Chris Jericho. Doan was released from WWE in 2013, ending a 21-year career.
Chad Patton
Chad Patton began his refereeing career in 1999 with WWE. He has officiated in several WrestleMania matches, including the main event of WrestleMania 25 between Triple H and Randy Orton. Patton’s calm demeanor and professionalism have made him a respected figure in the industry.
Teddy Long
Before becoming a well-known General Manager, Teddy Long was a referee in the NWA and WCW. He was the first African American to referee a main-event title match, making history in the process.
Drake Wuertz
Drake Wuertz, a former professional wrestler, transitioned to refereeing and joined WWE’s NXT brand. Known for his passion and intensity, Wuertz quickly became one of NXT’s top referees, officiating high-profile matches and earning respect from peers and fans alike.
The world of professional wrestling has been enriched by the contributions of these legendary referees and retired wrestling officials. Their unique roles, memorable moments, and dedication to the sport have left an indelible mark on wrestling history and legacy. The Hebner family’s contributions, the anomalies in refereeing, and the unique characters that have graced the ring as officials continue to be celebrated and remembered by fans around the world. The stories of these referees are an essential part of wrestling’s rich tapestry, reflecting the sport’s dynamic and ever-evolving nature.
Worst and Best Decisions
Memorable Moments
In the world of professional wrestling, referees play a pivotal role, in orchestrating the match and ensuring the safety of the wrestlers. Their decisions can lead to unforgettable moments that resonate with fans for generations. Here are some instances:
- Tim White’s Career-Ending Injury: During the Hell In A Cell match between Chris Jericho and Triple H at Judgment Day in May 2002, Tim White suffered a severe shoulder injury. This incident marked a turning point in his career, leading to his retirement as a referee. His struggle with the injury was later portrayed in a series of vignettes, highlighting the impact of the match on his life.
- Mike Chioda’s Historical Matches: Mike Chioda has been part of many historical matches, including the WrestleMania 14 main event between Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels. He was also the referee when the ring collapsed during a match between Brock Lesnar and Big Show, creating a memorable moment that fans still talk about.
- Dave Hebner’s Twin Brother Plot: The storyline involving Dave Hebner and his twin brother Earl screwing Hulk Hogan in a match against Andre the Giant became one of the most notorious moments in wrestling history. This plot unfolded on The Main Event in 1988 and was watched by 33 million viewers.
- Dick Kroll’s High-Profile Matches: Dick Kroll, known as “Mr. Main Event,” officiated countless high-profile matches, including the 1971 upset when Ivan Koloff ended Bruno Sammartino’s 2,803-day record reign. His presence in these significant matches made him a memorable figure in wrestling history.
These moments showcase the influence and importance of referees in shaping the narrative of wrestling. Their decisions, whether scripted or real, contribute to the drama and excitement that make wrestling a unique entertainment form.
Upsets and High-Profile Matches
Referees are often at the center of upsets and high-profile matches, where their decisions can either make or break a wrestler’s career. Here are some instances:
- Scott Armstrong’s Screwjob Angle: At the 2009 Breaking Point pay-per-view, Scott Armstrong played a role in a screwjob angle to prevent The Undertaker from winning the World Heavyweight Championship against CM Punk. This decision led to a series of events that added depth to the storyline.
- Joey Marella’s Classic Matches: Joey Marella, son of Gorilla Monsoon, officiated the biggest match in pro wrestling history, the Andre/Hogan encounter at WrestleMania III. His decisions in this and other classic matches like Davey Boy Smith vs. Bret Hart at SummerSlam 1992 have become part of wrestling lore.
- Earl Hebner’s Infamous Role in the Montreal Screwjob: Earl Hebner’s decision during the Montreal Screwjob in 1997, where he was part of the plot to deprive Bret Hart of the WWF Championship, remains one of the most controversial moments in wrestling history.
- Danny Davis’s Biased Refereeing: Danny Davis was known for his biased refereeing, favoring heel characters with quick counts against babyfaces. His actions generated significant heat and led to memorable storylines, such as the WWF Tag Team Championship match where the Hart Foundation won the title in January 1987.
These instances demonstrate how referees’ decisions in upsets and high-profile matches can create unforgettable moments, controversies, and storylines. Their role goes beyond merely enforcing rules; they are integral to the storytelling and drama that define professional wrestling.
Controversial Decisions
Heel Referee Gimmicks
Heel referee gimmicks are a fascinating aspect of professional wrestling. They add an extra layer of intrigue and excitement to the matches. Here are some examples:
- Nick Patrick’s Role with the nWo: Nick Patrick, a well-known referee in WCW, played a significant role as a heel referee aligned with the New World Order (NWO). His biased officiating in favor of nWo members created a buzz and added depth to the storyline. His actions were central to some of the most memorable moments in WCW history.
- Danny Davis’s Heel Turn: Danny Davis, a former WWF referee, turned heel and became a wrestler. His biased decisions in favor of heel characters led to his suspension as a referee. This storyline transitioned him into a wrestling role, where he continued to play a heel character.
- Scott Armstrong’s Alliance with The Authority: Scott Armstrong’s alliance with The Authority in WWE led to controversial decisions that favored Triple H and other members of the faction. His actions were part of larger storylines that played out over several months.
Infamous Incidents
Infamous incidents involving referees have left an indelible mark on wrestling history. These moments often spark debates and discussions among fans. Here are some examples:
- The Montreal Screwjob: Perhaps the most infamous incident in wrestling history, the Montreal Screwjob involved referee Earl Hebner, Vince McMahon, Shawn Michaels, and Bret Hart. During the 1997 Survivor Series, Hebner called for the bell while Hart was in Michaels’ submission hold, even though Hart did not tap out. This decision led to a real-life controversy that resonated for years.
- The Twin Referees in Hogan vs. André: The Main Event in 1988 featured a match between Hulk Hogan and André the Giant, where Earl Hebner’s twin brother, Dave Hebner, was replaced by Earl to screw Hogan out of the title. This plot twist became one of the most talked-about moments in wrestling.
- The Dusty Finish: Named after Dusty Rhodes, the Dusty Finish involves a referee making a controversial decision that is later reversed by another official. This finish has been used in various promotions to create drama and prolong feuds.
- The Fingerpoke of Doom: In a match between Hulk Hogan and Kevin Nash, referee Nick Patrick was part of a pre-planned finish where Nash deliberately lost to Hogan with a mere finger poke. This incident is often cited as a symbol of WCW’s decline.
The world of professional wrestling is enriched by the multifaceted roles and decisions of referees. From the introduction of legendary figures to the exploration of unique career arcs, heel gimmicks, and controversial decisions, referees are integral to the sport’s narrative fabric. Their influence extends beyond the ring, shaping memorable moments, upsets, high-profile matches, and even scandals. The complexity of their roles adds depth to wrestling’s storytelling, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for fans. Their impact, whether celebrated or vilified, continues to be a vital part of wrestling’s rich tapestry, reflecting the evolution of refereeing and its future prospects.
