Biography

Lawrence Edward Hamilton known as The Missouri Mauler, was an American professional wrestler who rose to prominence in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) during the 1960s and 1970s. He began his career in the 1950s, initially teaming with his brother Jody as the Hamilton Brothers. Together, they headlined events at iconic venues like Madison Square Garden. Hamilton later joined Jim Crockett Promotions in the Carolinas, where he became one of the top stars. In 1959, he won the tag team championship with The Great Bolo and was part of one of the most popular teams of the era. In the 1960s, he had intense rivalries with prominent wrestlers like Jack Brisco, Steve Keirn, and Fritz Von Erich, and formed successful teams, notably with Brute Bernard, with whom he won titles in the NWA. After retiring in 1981, Hamilton focused on bail bonds and became active in his local community, particularly in the St. James Catholic Church in his hometown of St. Joseph, Missouri. Despite undergoing hip surgery, he remained in good health until his death from a heart attack in 1996.