10 extraordinary examples of wrestlers toughing it out

#2 Vader (NJPW vs. AJPW Supercard Show, 1990)

He lasted the entire match with a broken nose

This display of resolve solidified Vader's status as one of the most fearsome "legit tough guys" in professional wrestling.

In February 1990, Big Van Vader squared off against Stan Hansen at an NJPW vs. AJPW Supercard Show. Seeing as these two were world-renowned for their stiff wrestling styles, the crowd knew full well that they were about to see two men beat the stuffing out of each other.

What they weren't prepared for, however, was this...

Before the match even began, Hansen broke Vader's nose with his bull-rope. Still, Vader traded actual punches to the face with Hansen for a brief exchange. As the two exchanged blows, Hansen accidentally caught Vader's eye with his thumb, causing Vader's eye to pop out of its socket. Instead of stopping the match like, you know, anyone else would... Vader removed his mask, pressed his eye back into his skull, and kept fighting stiff for several more minutes. The swelling was gruesome, but it actually kept his eye from popping out once again, so I suppose it was a blessing in disguise.

As a result of the injury, Vader had to have a metal plate surgically implanted under his eye. His tenacity drew the attention of World Championship Wrestling, who helped him become a household name in the states as well.

Long story short - do not mess with Vader. Well, unless you're Paul Orndorff.