Edward Hugh McDaniel, born on June 19, 1938
Edward Hugh McDaniel, born on June 19, 1938, played a significant role in American football and professional wrestling. Originally from Bernice, Louisiana, McDaniel's family settled in Midland, Texas, during his middle school years. He attended Midland High School, excelling in track and baseball, even coached by George H. W. Bush. Known by his ring name Wahoo McDaniel, he held the NWA United States Heavyweight Championship five times and became a major star in wrestling promotions like Jim Crockett Promotions. McDaniel's versatile career included playing as a linebacker for the New York Jets and later wrestling for various organizations, including the World Wide Wrestling Federation. He had a historical feud with Johnny Valentine, earning the NWA Mid-Atlantic Heavyweight Championship. McDaniel's health declined in the mid-1990s, leading to retirement in 1996. Unfortunately, he passed away on April 18, 2002, in Houston, Texas, leaving behind a legacy in both football and wrestling.