In Memory of Lord Alfred Hayes

Last Night, while watching, “Monday Night Raw,” I discovered Lord Alfred Hayes had passed away. A native of England who became a hated villain during the 60's and 70's.When I was twelve years old, we lived near Houston, and I had the opportunity to see Lord Alfred in person. He came to the ring wearing the Union Jack, as he waved in the air all the fans started booing very loudly. He appeared to be very offended. This was 1976 when this nation was celebrating it's Bicentennial. This made the fans hate him even more.

For many years promoters and fans overlooked his wrestling talent. But in 1972, Hayes defeated NWA World Champion Dory Funk Jr in 1972. But since Dory Sr. had interfered earler in the match, the referee reserved his decision to a disqualification. So Dory Jr. walked away with the title. That same year Pro Wrestling Illustrated named Hayes as “The Most Inspirational Wrestler of the Year."

In the 80's, Lord Alfred Hayes became a color commentator for the WWF. He participated in many promos and story lines. He was also the co-host for “Wrestling TNT” in 1986. Not only was he a gifted athlete, Hayes was also a talented entertainer.

In 1993, Hayes' health started going down. He suffered from a spinal infection, and lost a leg due to gangrene. In 2005 he had several stokes which led to his death. Lord Alfred Hayes was 76.

Rest in Peace.