10 of the most polarizing wrestlers of all time

7. Flying Brian/The Loose Cannon Pillman

Brian Pillman

Real name: Brian Pillman

Years in the sport: 11 (deceased.)

Finishing Move: As Flying Brian: Air Pillman (springboard clothesline.) As Loose Cannon: Hangman's neckbreaker.

Flying Brian Pillman was born into adversity. Afflicted with a childhood illness that, among other issues, stunted his growth and caused polyps to form in his throat (resulting in his signature gravelly voice) he decided he wanted to fight instead of just be disabled.

Trained as a boxer, Pillman earned his golden gloves and also competed in football and amateur wrestling. He played briefly for the Cincinnati Bengals before making the switch to pro wrestling.

Brian was one of the early cruiserweight stars in the United States, garnering a lot of praise and cheered as a babyface. He also worked heel when he was with the Hollywood Blondes with Steve Austin.

Pillman ended up having a bad accident and his ankle was fused. Unable to be Flying Brian any longer, he became the Loose Cannon. While technically a heel, Pillman's manic antics and larger than life persona made many fans cheer him, especially during the Attitude Era. Pillman was involved in a highly controversial angle where he 'won' Goldust's wife Marlena (Terri Runnels) right before his death, which ended the angle.