WWE History Vol. 10: Bring on the big guys

#5 Vader

Vader

Real Name: Leon White

Active years: 1986-2017

Height and Weight: 6' 5" 420 lbs (Billed at his legit height and weight.)

Signature Move: Powerbomb.

Had it not been for a ruptured patella, Leon White, better known to wrestling fans as Big Van Vader, might have had a successful NFL career and never entered a wrestling ring.

Fate intervened, and he was soon a dominant force on the pro wrestling circuit in the south west. Dubbed Baby Bull, he was considered too handsome by promoters to be the monster heel he would eventually become.

But when he went to Japan, Vader became the true beast we all know and love. He demolished Antonio Inoki at Sumo Hall, which led to a riot and pro wrestling being banned from the building for almost twenty years. Vader headed to WCW and dominated there as well, capturing the WCW World title.

When Vader joined WWE, he was aging out of his prime and wasn't the monster he used to be. Still, he managed to go on a couple of main event runs, though he never captured the world title. Vader is fondly remembered for his contributions to the sport.

He was as tough as they come.