Giant Haystacks

Biography

Giant Haystacks, whose real name was Martin Ruane, was born on October 10, 1947, in Camberwell, London, England. He is best known as a towering figure in British professional wrestling during the 1970s and 1980s, standing 6 feet 11 inches tall and often weighing over 600 pounds.

Career History and Evolution

Giant Haystacks’ wrestling career began in 1967, and his enormous size quickly made him a feared and famous figure. He wrestled in various organizations across the UK, including Joint Promotions and All-Star Wrestling.
In the late 1980s, Haystacks also ventured into North American wrestling, where he performed under the ring name “Loch Ness” in World Championship Wrestling (WCW). However, his run in WCW was short-lived, and he returned to the UK shortly afterward. He continued to wrestle until his retirement in 1996.

Titles Won and Biggest Matches

While British wrestling did not place as much emphasis on championship belts as its American counterparts, Giant Haystacks had numerous title wins during his career. He was the Joint Promotions British Heavyweight Champion and held the European Heavyweight Championship multiple times.
One of Haystacks’ most significant matches was against his long-time rival, Big Daddy, at Wembley Arena in 1981. Their rivalry was one of the most legendary in British wrestling history.

Biggest Rivalries and Tag Team Partners

Giant Haystacks’ career-long rivalry with Big Daddy, whose real name was Shirley Crabtree, was one of the biggest draws in British wrestling. Their matches were significant events, often broadcast on national television.
As for tag team partners, Haystacks regularly teamed with his kayfabe cousin, “Big” Jim Haystacks, and they were a formidable duo due to their sheer size.

Family Life

Ruane was a private individual when it came to his personal life. He was married and had three children.

Finishing Move, Clothing, and Entrance Music

Giant Haystacks’ finishing move was a simple yet devastating elbow drop, using his colossal weight to overpower opponents.
He wore simple, black wrestling attire and, due to his size, did not need extravagant clothing to command attention.
As for entrance music, British wrestling in Haystacks’ era did not regularly use specific entrance themes for wrestlers like today’s promotions.

Legacy

Giant Haystacks is a legend of British wrestling. His battles with Big Daddy were watched by millions and helped popularize wrestling in the UK. Haystacks, with his intimidating size and presence, left an indelible mark on the wrestling industry. Unfortunately, Ruane passed away from cancer in 1998, but his legacy as Giant Haystacks continues to live on in the annals of British wrestling history.