Dark Side of the Ring: Big Boss Man Episode Confirmed?
- The legacy of Ray “Big Boss Man” Traylor is set to be revisited in a future episode of the Vice TV docuseries Dark Side of the Ring, according...
- Traylor’s journey to the squared circle was unique, beginning with a career in law enforcement.
- Traylor debuted in professional wrestling in 1985 with Jim Crockett Promotions, initially performing as Big Bubba Rogers, a silent enforcer for manager Jim Cornette.
The legacy of Ray “Big Boss Man” Traylor is set to be revisited in a future episode of the Vice TV docuseries Dark Side of the Ring, according to a recent teaser posted on the show’s Instagram account. The teaser, featuring a Big Boss Man action figure amidst flashing police lights and film equipment, signals an in-depth exploration of the life and career of the popular wrestler who passed away in .
From Corrections Officer to Wrestling Icon
Traylor’s journey to the squared circle was unique, beginning with a career in law enforcement. Before becoming a household name in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW), he served as a corrections officer in Cobb County, Georgia. This background became central to his Big Boss Man persona, a character who often portrayed a stern, authoritative figure, complete with handcuffs and a no-nonsense attitude.
Traylor debuted in professional wrestling in with Jim Crockett Promotions, initially performing as Big Bubba Rogers, a silent enforcer for manager Jim Cornette. His early career saw him engage in a notable feud with Dusty Rhodes. However, it was his arrival in the WWF in that truly cemented his place in wrestling history.
The Twin Towers and Beyond in the WWF
As the Big Boss Man, Traylor quickly became a prominent heel (villainous) character in the WWF. He formed a formidable tag team with Akeem, known as The Twin Towers, and engaged in a high-profile rivalry with WWF champion Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage. This feud highlighted the Big Boss Man’s imposing presence and ability to draw heat from the crowd.
Traylor’s character evolved over time, transitioning into a fan favorite, or “face.” In this role, he feuded with Bobby Heenan and The Mountie, further showcasing his versatility and connection with audiences. His ability to adapt and maintain popularity through different character alignments was a testament to his skill as a performer.
WCW and a Return to the WWF
In , Traylor moved to WCW, where he wrestled under various names, including The Boss, The Guardian Angel, and a return to the Big Bubba Rogers moniker. He became involved with both the Dungeon of Doom and the New World Order (nWo) factions, navigating the shifting landscape of WCW during its competitive era with the WWF.
Traylor eventually returned to the WWF in , reinventing his character with a new look – a black SWAT-style uniform – and aligning himself with Vince McMahon’s “Corporation” faction. This period saw him participate in some of the more controversial storylines of the era, including a memorable and highly criticized angle involving the interruption of a funeral during a feud with the Big Show.
A Legacy Beyond the Ring
Born on , in Marietta, Georgia, Traylor’s life extended beyond the wrestling ring. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Angela, whom he married in , and a father to two daughters. He was also known for his community involvement, notably organizing memorial ceremonies to honor the victims of the attacks.
Tragically, Ray Traylor passed away on , at the age of 41, due to a heart attack. His untimely death shocked the wrestling world and left a void in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike. In , he was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, an honor his wife and daughters accepted on his behalf, solidifying his place among wrestling’s all-time greats.
Dark Side of the Ring has become known for its unflinching examination of the darker, more complex stories within professional wrestling. Previous episodes have covered topics such as the career of the Dynamite Kid, the life of Chris Kanyon, and the 1990s steroid trials involving WWE. The series, produced by Vice Studios Canada, utilizes interviews with family members, peers, and historians to provide a comprehensive and often revealing look at its subjects. The upcoming episode on the Big Boss Man promises to be another compelling addition to the series, offering fans a deeper understanding of the man behind the persona and the challenges he faced both inside and outside the ring.
Season six of Dark Side of the Ring is set to premiere on , with production already underway. The show’s continued success and renewal for a seventh season demonstrate the enduring appeal of wrestling’s untold stories and the willingness of audiences to confront the complexities of this unique and often controversial form of entertainment.