Breaking: First Deaf Wrestler in WWF/E History Passes Away
Brian Mackney, known professionally as “Silent” Brian Mackney, has died at the age of 77. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Mackney made history as the first deaf athlete to compete in the WWF/E.
Legacy in Wrestling
Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling, where Mackney was a cherished alumnus, announced his passing in a statement on X:
“MAPLE LEAF PRO is saddened to hear of the passing today of ‘Silent’ Brian Mackney, a Maple Leaf Wrestling alumni and legend in Toronto. Mackney was more than a journeyman, who not only won the hearts of the Toronto fans in the 1970s and 1980s, but gained attention worldwide, competing in Japan with both New Japan Pro Wrestling and All-Japan Pro Wrestling. He also worked in various NWA territories, including Mid-Atlantic. When the WWF took over Toronto, Silent Brian continued working there for Vince McMahon for several years. Remarkably, Brian Mackney accomplished all of this as a deaf person, proving his hearing impairment would never hold him back — he rose above it all and achieved what many could not. We were humbled to have ‘Silent’ Brian attend our event this past May at the former Maple Leaf Gardens and we are proud of his legacy in Maple Leaf Wrestling history.”
Career Highlights
- First deaf wrestler to compete in WWF/E
- Popular in Toronto during the 1970s and 1980s
- Competed internationally in Japan with New Japan Pro Wrestling and All-Japan Pro Wrestling
- Worked in several NWA territories including Mid-Atlantic
- Continued wrestling under WWF in Toronto for Vince McMahon
Enduring Inspiration
Brian Mackney’s career is a powerful example of overcoming adversity and breaking barriers in professional wrestling.
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