Mike marino biography

British professional wrestler (1921 – 1981)

For the American make-up artist, see Mike Marino (make-up artist).

Mike Marino (born 8 October 1921 as Michael Harrison^[1] – died 24 August 1981^[2]) was an Englishprofessional wrestler and a leading name during the World of Sport era in British wrestling.

Mike marino wrestler

At his death Marino was holder of the three Mid-Heavyweight titles active in Britain at the time. Mike Marino was cousin to fellow wrestler Joe D'Orazio^[3]

Wrestling career

Born in London of Italian extraction, Marino initially turned to boxing as a Cruiserweight.

However unable to obtain a licence to box in the United Kingdom, he spent his entire career in mainland Europe.^[4] He turned to wrestling in the early 1950s and came to prominence after winning an international tournament in Paris in 1951.^[4] Mike Marino appeared on the first televised wrestling match in the United Kingdom, a bout against Francis Gregor