Sabu Howard is a name that has become synonymous with hardcore wrestling, a unique and intense style of wrestling that prioritizes high-impact, extreme stunts, and dramatic storytelling. Known for his larger-than-life persona and incredible athleticism, Sabu quickly became one of the most recognized figures in the wrestling industry. Though he is widely known as simply “Sabu,” his real name is Taylor Howard, and his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a wrestling icon is a testament to his resilience, creativity, and determination.
Sabu’s career spanned over several decades, with countless memorable matches that left fans in awe. His unique wrestling style, which blended high-flying moves with brutal weapon-based attacks, made him an unforgettable figure in the world of professional wrestling. However, his story is not just one of athletic success; it is also about his personal journey, struggles, and evolution in the world of combat sports.
In this article, we will explore the life of Sabu Howard, from his early beginnings in wrestling to his rise as a legend in the industry. We will also delve into his impact on the world of wrestling, his signature moves, his most memorable matches, and the legacy he leaves behind. Additionally, we will address frequently asked questions about Sabu Howard and his career.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Sabu Howard was born as Taylor Howard, and little is known about his early life before entering the world of professional wrestling. Like many wrestlers, Sabu’s introduction to the sport came through family ties. His uncle, the legendary wrestler The Sheik, played a pivotal role in introducing him to the world of wrestling. The Sheik, who was a famous figure in the 1960s and 1970s, helped Sabu get his start in the business and imparted valuable knowledge about the wrestling industry.
Taylor Howard adopted the ring name “Sabu” and made his debut in the early 1980s. While his early matches were largely in regional promotions, Sabu’s talent and charisma quickly became apparent. He was not just another wrestler; he was an innovator who brought a unique, high-flying style that stood out in an industry that was traditionally dominated by ground-based wrestling.
In the early part of his career, Sabu wrestled for various independent promotions and regional federations, honing his craft and developing the hardcore style that would become his trademark. His unorthodox approach to wrestling – incorporating table crashes, barbed wire, and other extreme elements into his matches – gained him the attention of both fans and wrestling promoters.
Rise to Fame in ECW
Sabu’s rise to prominence came in the 1990s, when he signed with Eastern Championship Wrestling (ECW), a promotion that was known for its extreme and edgy content. ECW was the perfect fit for Sabu, whose style meshed perfectly with the promotion’s reputation for hardcore, no-holds-barred action. It was in ECW where Sabu truly made his mark and solidified his place in wrestling history.
At ECW, Sabu was involved in some of the most brutal and innovative matches that wrestling fans had ever seen. His rivalry with other ECW legends, including Terry Funk, Rob Van Dam, and Jerry Lynn, was a major draw for the promotion. His matches often included dangerous stunts such as jumping off the top of ladders, diving through tables, and engaging in street fights that pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in wrestling.
Sabu’s persona in ECW was that of a mysterious and enigmatic figure. His appearance – with his wild hair, unique face paint, and distinctive gear – made him stand out among the other wrestlers. His ability to create chaos in the ring, combined with his innovative use of weapons like chairs, glass, and barbed wire, earned him the nickname “The Homicidal, Suicidal, Genocidal” wrestler.
Signature Moves and Style
One of the most iconic aspects of Sabu’s career is his wrestling style. He was known for his willingness to take extreme risks in order to entertain fans, often performing high-flying maneuvers that were both dangerous and awe-inspiring. Sabu was one of the first wrestlers to incorporate the use of tables, ladders, and other foreign objects into his matches, which became staples of his wrestling persona.
Some of Sabu’s signature moves include:
- The Arabian Facebuster:
This is one of Sabu’s most famous moves, where he delivers a running facebuster to his opponent, often using the top rope as a springboard.
- The Triple Jump Moonsault:
Sabu’s version of the moonsault, where he jumps off the ropes multiple times before launching into a high-flying moonsault, was one of the most breathtaking maneuvers in wrestling.
- The Suicide Dive:
Sabu often took to the outside of the ring and would launch himself over the top rope in a daring suicide dive, often into a group of opponents or through a table.
- The Chair Shot:
Sabu made frequent use of steel chairs in his matches, delivering devastating shots to his opponents and even using the chairs as tools to assist in his high-flying moves.
These signature moves helped Sabu carve out a unique identity in the wrestling world. His high-risk style, combined with his love for hardcore brawls, made him a fan favorite and a true innovator in the industry.
Memorable Matches and Rivalries
Throughout his career, Sabu was involved in some of the most memorable and influential matches in wrestling history. His rivalry with Terry Funk is often cited as one of the greatest in the history of ECW. Their matches, which featured brutal and bloody confrontations, helped define the hardcore wrestling genre and set the standard for future brawls.
Sabu also had legendary rivalries with other ECW stars such as Rob Van Dam and Jerry Lynn. His bouts with Van Dam, in particular, are still talked about by wrestling fans today, with their matches being regarded as some of the best in ECW history.
In addition to his ECW career, Sabu also appeared in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), where he continued to showcase his hardcore style. While he never won a major championship in WWE, his time there was marked by memorable moments and exciting matches.
Impact on the Wrestling Industry
Sabu’s impact on the wrestling industry cannot be overstated. He was one of the pioneers of hardcore wrestling and helped popularize the style that is now widely recognized in mainstream wrestling promotions. His matches were known for their high-risk, extreme nature, and his willingness to push the limits of what was possible inside the ring made him a trailblazer in the industry.
In addition to his in-ring contributions, Sabu’s unique character and persona helped shape the identity of ECW. He became a symbol of the promotion’s rebellious spirit and willingness to break the traditional boundaries of wrestling.
Even after his retirement from full-time wrestling, Sabu remains a beloved figure among fans of hardcore wrestling. His influence can be seen in the work of many current wrestlers who cite him as a major inspiration.
Sabu’s Legacy and Life After Wrestling
Sabu retired from full-time wrestling in the late 2000s, though he still makes occasional appearances for various promotions. His legacy as one of the most influential hardcore wrestlers in history remains intact, and he is frequently mentioned in discussions about the greatest wrestlers to ever step into the ring.
After retiring, Sabu has remained involved in wrestling in various capacities. He has made appearances for independent promotions, participated in autograph signings, and continues to be a respected figure within the wrestling community. While he is no longer an active competitor, his name is synonymous with hardcore wrestling, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of wrestlers.
FAQs About Sabu Howard
- Who is Sabu Howard?
- Sabu Howard, born Taylor Howard, is a legendary professional wrestler known for his hardcore wrestling style.
- What was Sabu’s wrestling style?
- Sabu’s wrestling style was characterized by high-flying moves, extreme stunts, and the use of weapons like chairs, tables, and barbed wire.
- Who did Sabu wrestle for?
- Sabu wrestled for several promotions, including ECW, WWE, and TNA. He is best known for his time in ECW, where he became a major star.
- What are some of Sabu’s signature moves?
- Some of Sabu’s signature moves include the Arabian Facebuster, Triple Jump Moonsault, Suicide Dive, and the use of steel chairs in his matches.
- What was Sabu’s most memorable match?
- Sabu had many memorable matches, including his legendary rivalries with Terry Funk, Rob Van Dam, and Jerry Lynn in ECW.
Conclusion
Sabu Howard’s journey from Taylor Howard to one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling is a testament to his passion, creativity, and unrelenting drive. His career, marked by groundbreaking matches, intense rivalries, and a revolutionary wrestling style, has left an indelible mark on the industry. Today, Sabu remains a beloved figure in the world of wrestling, and his legacy as a trailblazer in hardcore wrestling will continue to inspire future generations of fans and wrestlers alike.
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