Big Boss Man

Biography

Raymond Walter Traylor Jr., better known by his ring name Big Boss Man, was born on May 2, 1963, in Marietta, Georgia. Prior to his wrestling career, Traylor worked as a corrections officer in Cobb County, Georgia, a profession that would heavily influence his wrestling persona.

Career History and Evolution

Traylor debuted in the wrestling world in the 1980s in the Universal Wrestling Federation (UWF) before he was recruited by the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1988. He quickly made a name for himself as the Big Boss Man, a character based on his former career as a prison guard.
His wrestling career significantly evolved over the years as he transitioned between face (hero) and heel (villain) roles. Initially, Big Boss Man played a corrupt, brutal law enforcement officer, but he eventually transitioned into a face role, defending law and order.
After leaving WWF in 1993, he had a stint in All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW) before returning to the now-renamed WWE in 1998. This time, his persona was darker and more menacing, working as the personal security of the villainous Mr. McMahon.

Titles Won and Biggest Matches

Over the span of his career, Big Boss Man secured numerous championship titles. In WWF/E, he was a one-time WWF Tag Team Champion with his partner Ken Shamrock, a one-time WWF Hardcore Champion, and a four-time WWF/E Hardcore Champion.
Among his most significant matches were those against Hulk Hogan, “Macho Man” Randy Savage, and The Mountie. His Hardcore Championship match against Al Snow at Summerslam 1999 was one of his most memorable bouts.

Biggest Rivalries and Tag Team Partners

Big Boss Man had several notable rivalries throughout his career, including with Hulk Hogan, “Macho Man” Randy Savage, Al Snow, and The Mountie. His feud with Hogan was particularly memorable and extended over many months.
In terms of tag teams, Big Boss Man formed a notable alliance with Ken Shamrock, Test, and Vince McMahon in a faction known as “The Corporation”. He also partnered with “Bull” Buchanan to form a formidable tag team in the late ’90s and early 2000s.

Family Life

Traylor was married to Angela Traylor, and they had two daughters, Megan and Lacy. He was known as a devoted family man outside the ring.

Finishing Move, Clothing, and Entrance Music

Big Boss Man’s finishing move, known as the “Boss Man Slam,” is a spinning sidewalk slam that has incapacitated many opponents.
His ring attire is one of the most recognizable in wrestling history. He wore a police-style uniform complete with a nightstick and shades, encapsulating his corrections officer persona.
His entrance theme in WWF was called “Hard Times”, a bluesy rock tune that further accentuated his character as a law enforcement officer.

Legacy

Big Boss Man passed away on September 22, 2004. However, his contribution to the wrestling world is remembered and celebrated. He was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2016 by his former manager, Slick. His unique character, memorable feuds, and in-ring abilities left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling.