Sabu Howard, known simply as Sabu, is a name that has become synonymous with extreme wrestling and a captivating persona. Born as Taylor Howard, Sabu’s career and legacy in the world of professional wrestling have cemented his place as one of the most influential and polarizing figures in the industry. Known for his daring style, risk-taking in the ring, and his eccentric character, Sabu’s journey to becoming a wrestling legend is marked by persistence, evolution, and an enduring impact on the sport.
This article will explore Sabu Howard early life, wrestling career, achievements, and influence within the world of professional wrestling, offering a comprehensive look at the man behind the persona. Additionally, we will examine some of the key milestones in his life and career that have helped shape his identity, both in and out of the ring.
Early Life and Background of Sabu Howard
Sabu Howard was born on December 12, 1964, in the United States, under the name Taylor Howard. His birth name, however, was overshadowed by his wrestling alias. Sabu’s family was deeply involved in the world of wrestling, which played a significant role in shaping his future career. His uncle, the legendary “Sheik” Ed Farhat, was a well-known professional wrestler and promoter who had a profound influence on Sabu’s early exposure to the wrestling world.
Growing up in Michigan, Sabu was surrounded by the sport from an early age, often spending time in the wrestling rings with his family. His early training was a combination of learning the ropes from his uncle and watching the greats of the industry perform. The Sheik’s wrestling style, a mix of aggression and showmanship, greatly influenced Sabu’s own approach to wrestling. This early introduction to the business laid the foundation for what would become one of the most unique and thrilling careers in the history of professional wrestling.
Breaking into Professional Wrestling
Sabu’s official entry into professional wrestling began in the 1980s, though it was not an easy journey. Initially, he trained in the wrestling circuit alongside his uncle, where he was exposed to various styles and techniques. However, his path to success was far from traditional. Unlike many wrestlers who start in smaller promotions before making a name for themselves, Sabu quickly made a splash with his high-flying and extreme wrestling style that captivated audiences.
Known for his willingness to push the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in the ring, Sabu quickly earned a reputation for his extreme matches, which often involved high-risk stunts and hardcore brawls. His unique style, which incorporated weapons, blood, and brutal wrestling moves, was unlike anything that audiences had seen before. This made him stand out, not only in the United States but also on the international stage.
The Rise of Sabu in ECW
Though Sabu’s career began in various regional promotions, it wasn’t until he joined the Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) promotion in the 1990s that he truly rose to fame. ECW, known for its edgy, hardcore style of wrestling, was the perfect platform for Sabu’s talents. The promotion became infamous for its willingness to push boundaries, which aligned perfectly with Sabu’s wrestling persona.
Sabu’s first appearance in ECW was in 1993, and his impact was immediate. He quickly became known for his matches with legendary wrestlers such as Terry Funk, Tommy Dreamer, and Rob Van Dam. His high-flying, daredevil style combined with his use of weapons made him a fan favorite in ECW, a promotion that thrived on delivering brutal and hardcore wrestling matches.
In ECW, Sabu became known as one of the most extreme and unpredictable wrestlers, and his battles in the ring often left fans in awe. His infamous rivalry with Terry Funk, which included a series of brutal hardcore matches, is considered one of the greatest storylines in ECW history.
Sabu’s Unique Wrestling Style
One of the key reasons behind Sabu’s success was his unique wrestling style, which combined traditional wrestling with high-flying maneuvers and hardcore elements. He was known for his incredible athleticism, acrobatic moves, and daredevil stunts. Sabu was not afraid to take risks in the ring, often putting his body on the line in death-defying leaps, dives, and chair shots that pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in wrestling.
His style was a combination of Eastern and Western wrestling techniques, drawing influence from the traditional Japanese “strong style” and hardcore wrestling. Sabu was also known for his use of unconventional weapons in his matches, including barbed wire, steel chairs, and tables. These elements added a brutal and chaotic aspect to his matches, making them highly entertaining for fans of the extreme wrestling style that was emerging in the 1990s.
One of the defining characteristics of Sabu’s style was his willingness to risk injury for the sake of entertainment. He was often involved in matches that resulted in significant cuts, bruises, and even broken bones, yet his resilience and dedication to his craft earned him the respect of fans and fellow wrestlers alike.
Sabu’s Championships and Achievements
Throughout his career, Sabu accumulated a number of championships and accolades that solidified his place as a wrestling legend. In ECW, he won the ECW World Television Championship and the ECW World Tag Team Championship, cementing his place as one of the top stars in the promotion. His matches in ECW, particularly his hardcore bouts, were some of the most memorable and influential in wrestling history.
Sabu also competed in various other promotions, including WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment), TNA (Total Nonstop Action Wrestling), and WCW (World Championship Wrestling). While his tenure in these promotions was often shorter than his time in ECW, Sabu still left his mark on the wrestling world. In WWE, Sabu was part of the ECW brand revival and participated in memorable matches, including his involvement in the 2006 Royal Rumble.
Additionally, Sabu is recognized for his influence on the hardcore wrestling scene and for helping to popularize the extreme wrestling style that became a hallmark of promotions like ECW. He was one of the driving forces behind the creation of the “hardcore” match type, which has since become a staple of modern professional wrestling.
Sabu’s Impact on the Wrestling Industry
Sabu’s impact on the wrestling industry is immeasurable. His style, characterized by high-flying moves, extreme stunts, and the use of weapons, helped to shape the landscape of modern wrestling. Sabu’s influence can be seen in the matches of countless wrestlers who have adopted his high-risk approach, including stars like Rob Van Dam, Tommy Dreamer, and others who rose to fame in the hardcore wrestling scene.
His legacy is also evident in the continued popularity of extreme wrestling events, where fans expect to see the type of brutal and dangerous matches that Sabu made famous. Even today, Sabu’s name is synonymous with the ECW brand, and his contributions to the world of professional wrestling continue to inspire a new generation of wrestlers.
Sabu’s Personal Life
While Sabu’s professional life is well-documented, his personal life remains relatively private. Known for his intense and mysterious persona, Sabu has kept a low profile when it comes to his personal affairs. Throughout his career, Sabu has been known to be somewhat elusive, rarely speaking about his private life outside of wrestling.
However, it is well known that Sabu’s dedication to wrestling came at a personal cost. His career has been physically demanding, and he has suffered numerous injuries throughout his time in the ring. Despite these challenges, Sabu has continued to perform at a high level, showing an unyielding commitment to his craft.
Sabu’s Retirement and Legacy
Sabu’s career has spanned several decades, and while he has officially retired from full-time wrestling, his influence is still felt today. He remains a beloved figure in the wrestling community, and his contributions to the sport are celebrated by fans and fellow wrestlers alike. Even after retiring from the ring, Sabu continues to make occasional appearances at wrestling events and conventions, where he remains a fan favorite.
Sabu’s legacy is cemented not only through his championships and achievements but also through the revolutionary impact he had on the wrestling industry. His unique style and willingness to push the limits of what could be done in the ring have left an indelible mark on professional wrestling.
FAQs
- Who is Sabu Howard?
Sabu, born Taylor Howard, is a retired professional wrestler best known for his extreme wrestling style in promotions like ECW. - What is Sabu’s wrestling style?
Sabu is known for his high-flying maneuvers, hardcore elements, and the use of weapons like barbed wire, steel chairs, and tables in his matches. - Where did Sabu start his wrestling career?
Sabu began his career in regional promotions before gaining worldwide recognition in ECW. - What championships did Sabu win?
Sabu won the ECW World Television Championship and the ECW World Tag Team Championship, among others, throughout his career. - Has Sabu competed in WWE?
Yes, Sabu competed in WWE as part of the ECW brand revival in the 2000s.
Final Thoughts
Sabu Howard’s journey from a young man influenced by his wrestling family to becoming an iconic figure in the world of extreme wrestling is a testament to his talent, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the sport. His legacy in professional wrestling is undeniable, and his influence continues to shape the industry. Whether through his high-risk wrestling style, his unforgettable matches, or his lasting impact on the wrestling community, Sabu remains a legend in the world of professional wrestling.
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