Rick Steiner

Biography

Born Robert Rechsteiner on March 9, 1961, in Bay City, Michigan, Rick Steiner is best known for his role as one half of the acclaimed tag team, the Steiner Brothers. Rick Steiner’s robust wrestling style and “Dog-Faced Gremlin” persona made him a distinct character in the world of professional wrestling.

Career History and Evolution

Rick Steiner started his wrestling career in the regional territories, including a stint in Verne Gagne’s American Wrestling Association (AWA). He gained national prominence in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), where he teamed up with his brother Scott as the Steiner Brothers. The team was a dominant force in the tag team scene throughout the 1990s in both WCW and the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE). Rick also had a successful singles run in WCW, including a period as Television Champion.

Titles and Achievements

As a tag team, the Steiner Brothers are multi-time Tag Team Champions in both WCW and WWF. Individually, Rick held the WCW World Television Championship and the United States Heavyweight Championship. His powerful and technical wrestling style, combined with his unique character work, earned him a reputation as a reliable and entertaining performer.

Biggest Matches and Rivalries

The Steiner Brothers had famous feuds with tag teams like The Road Warriors, Harlem Heat, and The Outsiders (Kevin Nash and Scott Hall). They’re also known for their classic matches with Sting and Lex Luger, and Doom (Ron Simmons and Butch Reed). As a singles competitor, Rick had notable rivalries with “Stunning” Steve Austin over the Television Championship and with his brother Scott when the two had a storyline falling out.

Tag Team Partners

Rick’s most famous tag team partner is his real-life brother, Scott Steiner. However, he also had brief alliances with other wrestlers, such as Buff Bagwell in WCW.

Family Life

Rick Steiner is part of a wrestling family. His brother Scott also had a successful wrestling career, and his son Bronson Rechsteiner is pursuing a career in professional wrestling as of my knowledge cutoff in 2021.

Finishing Move

Rick Steiner’s finishing move is the Steiner Line, a powerful clothesline that exemplifies his hard-hitting wrestling style. He was also known for his suplex variations, a tribute to his amateur wrestling background.

Clothing and Entrance Music

In the ring, Rick Steiner was often seen wearing a singlet, emphasizing his amateur wrestling roots. His entrance music in WCW was a hard rock instrumental that perfectly suited his rough-and-ready character.
Rick Steiner’s impact on professional wrestling, particularly in the realm of tag team wrestling, is significant. As a Steiner Brother and as a solo competitor, his influence on the sport continues to be felt.