During the early part of the 1950s, wrestling experienced an amazing boom of amateur
wrestlers turning professional.  Among them were Pat O'Connor, Don Curtis, Dick Hutton,
and Ray Gunkel of Chicago.

His achievements included the Silver Skates championship in Chicago.

Gunkel was a lifeguard.

He served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II.

At Purdue University, he was a fullback, using the number 44.

Gunkel was trained by Billy Thom.














Research by Tim Hornbaker
Ray Gunkel Wrestling History
Custom Search