The career of Babs Wingo is remarkable as Wingo is not only a pioneer of women’s
wrestling, but one of the first women of color in the sport, truly breaking down barriers at
a time African Americans still dealt with segregation. Wingo began wrestling with her
sisters Ethel and Marva during the 1950s. This was before the civil rights and the
women’s rights movements, that these athletes exuded bravery amid racism and sexism
to succeed in a white, male-dominated profession.
Wingo was from Columbus, Ohio which was a notable region for the sport during that
time, began wrestling at just 16 years old. She would catch the eye of local promoter,
Billy Wolf, and in short time would be the first of her sisters to make her professional
debut for NWA. Wingo was a part of defying the notion that women couldn’t be strong,
and her skill and athleticism grew her reputation nationwide.
Wingo truly revolutionized the sport during a very different time in the country. Perhaps
her most notable accomplishment came in 1953, where she would match Mildred Burke
who was champion, in the nations first interracial match. This match drew a crowd of
9,000 fans and Babs would make history in victory becoming the first interracial
champion in the sport.
Wingo was and is an inspiration to wrestling fans and to the sport. In the movie Queen
of the Ring, you can see her character portrayed by actress Damaris Lewis. In addition
to that theirs is a documentary on Wingo and her sisters titled “Lady Wrestler.”
What other fun facts have you heard about Babs Wingo? Let us know in the comments.
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