In the scorching summer of 1993, Charlie Norris emerged onto the WCW scene, clad in the regalia of a proud Native American warrior. In his earliest days in the squared circle, Norris was embraced by fans as a valiant babyface, dispatching enhancement talent and mid-card heels with ease. He was considered a second-tier babyface under Sting.
But, alas, Norris’ time in the limelight was short-lived. By early 1994, his tenure in WCW came to a sudden halt. Undeterred, Norris bravely took a stand against the company, filing a lawsuit that accused WCW of subjecting him to demeaning and racially charged acts. He pointed the finger directly at former WCW executive Greg Gagne, who, according to Norris, repeatedly referred to him as “Big Chief” in a derogatory manner.
Norris also alleged that he was underpaid at $800 per week which was well under what the other talents were being paid at the time. He also claimed that they were receiving travel and costuming money while he was not. Charlie Norris eventually won the lawsuit.
Today, the wrestling world mourns the loss of a true trailblazer. Charlie Norris, the former WCW star and champion for justice, has passed away at the age of 57. The Cauliflower Alley Club broke the news, sending shockwaves through the community. Norris’ legacy lives on, not only for his in-ring accomplishments, but for his bravery in speaking out against the injustices he faced.
After leaving the bright lights of the wrestling world behind in 2001, Norris settled into a more modest life on the Red Lake Indian Reservation in Northwestern Minnesota. There, he dedicated himself to serving his community, working as a personal trainer and helping others to achieve their fitness goals.
We at Ringside News extend our deepest condolences to the family of Charlie Norris in these difficult times.
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