In the United States, there are several areas that are considered wrestling “hotbeds”, where it seems like a significant portion of wrestlers just seem to constantly pour from, many of whom go on to become some of the industry’s biggest stars. For example, Minnesota produced such stars as Curt “Mr Perfect” Hennig, Brock Lesnar, and yes, “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair (although he would more famously be associated with the Carolinas thanks to his long WCW career). Florida, meanwhile, offers up Hulk Hogan, The Rock, and current top star Roman Reigns. However, if you’re looking for the state that seems to constantly be providing some of the best wrestlers in history, look no further than the great state of Texas. Here are just a few examples of the incredible wrestling talent that comes straight from the Lone Star state.
10. Mark Henry
The native of Silsbee, Texas rose to prominence as a powerlifter, setting records at state and national levels, becoming a member of the US Olympic Team in the process and attending the 1992 and 1996 Olympic Games. While he failed to medal at either event, Henry national profile as a record-setting weightlifter drew the eye of WWE, which was in desperate need of new talent in the burgeoning Monday Night War with WCW. Henry was signed to an infamous 10-year ironclad contract without having a shred of wrestling experience, and initially failed to live up to ridiculously high expectations. In fact, it was rumored that Henry’s “Sexual Chocolate” persona and subsequent pairing with Mae Young was an attempt by Vince McMahon to get Henry to quit, so that WWE would no longer be on the hook for his lucrative contract. Henry persevered, however, and over time improved to become one of the company’s better big men. Along the way, Henry participated in strongman competitions, and won the right to call himself “The World’s Strongest Man”. Henry ascended through the ranks to become a perennial World title contender during the Brand Split era, and finally broke through in 2008 by becoming ECW Champion. Three years later, Henry rode a hot heel character to his very first World Heavyweight Title reign, earning rave reviews for his ring work and “Hall of Pain” Character.
http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/the-squared-circle/WWEs-Mark-Henry-talks-retirement-his-in-ring-debut-and-more.html Source: philly.com