Whipper, Pat, Bunny 1943


Three of the longest serving of the MLW regulars pictured in 1943. Including just their pro service under Corcoran and Tunney, the three had over 100 years combined.

  • Al 'Bunny' Dunlop wrestled from about 1932 and then refereed through to 1971 - 39 years
  • Whipper Watson wrestled 1940-1971 and around occasionally to late 1970s - 31+ years
  • Pat Flanagan wrestled 1942 to 1968 and referred to about 1978 - 36 years

This show, just over 75 years ago this May,  was for the 'Fresh Air Fund' which helps kids get out of the city in the summer and enjoy some country life, still going strong today.



Pedro Martinez took on Ed 'Strangler' Lewis. He didn't 'murder the Strangler' but went down to a headlock then body press in losing the bout. Martinez was a regular here before he branched out and promoted Buffalo. The whole Toronto crew were frequent visitors to Buffalo.

May 13 1943 Maple Leaf Gardens 
The Red Shadow pinned Whipper Watson 39:09
Ed 'Strangler' Lewis pinned Pedro Martinez 8:27 
Fank Sexton defeated Jack Claybourne  15:02
Al 'Bunny' Dunlop beat Jack Wentworth 16:53
Pat Flanagan pinned Jan Gotch 16:16 
Referee: Ernie Powers