Biography:
(Pioneer) Babs Wingo was a trailblazing African-American wrestler who made history in the 1950s as the first black woman to integrate professional wrestling. Alongside her sisters Marva Scott and Ethel Johnson, Babs challenged the norms and prejudices of the sport, leaving an indelible mark on the wrestling world. Their untold stories of resilience and strength helped to revolutionize professional wrestling in ways that nobody could have predicted.
During the late 1800s, when professional wrestling was first created, the ideal wrestler was a strong, physically dominant Caucasian male. As a result of segregation and gender laws prevalent at the time, women and people of other races were seldom allowed to participate in the sport, even as spectators. In states like California and New York, women’s boxing and wrestling were outright banned, and African Americans were prohibited from competing against their white counterparts.
However, under the management of promoter Billy Wolfe, three young African American sisters from Columbus, Ohio were about to change the landscape of wrestling forever. Born in Decatur, Georgia and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Betty Wingo (known by her ring name Babs), Ethel Johnson Wingo, and Marva Wingo were three extraordinary athletes raised in an era where opportunities for African Americans were scarce.
Armed with their extraordinary athleticism, Babs Wingo, Marva Scott, and Ethel Johnson shattered the myth of women’s physical inferiority. It did not take long for them to gain popularity and establish a reputation across the country. In 1953, Babs had the chance to wrestle the reigning champion Mildred Burke in front of a crowd of 9,000 fans. That night, she emerged victorious, becoming the first interracial women’s champion.
Alongside her younger sister Marva, Babs also took part in tag team matches where they were billed as the first Negro Women’s Tag Champions. Although the audience did not know they were siblings, their performances wowed the crowds and set a new standard for black women in professional wrestling.
Babs Wingo’s influence extended far beyond the wrestling ring. By breaking down racial barriers and achieving success in a predominantly white industry, she became an inspiration to aspiring athletes and marginalized individuals everywhere. Her trailblazing career played a pivotal role in challenging systemic racism and opening doors for future generations of black wrestlers.
Despite the groundbreaking achievements of Babs and her sisters, their contributions to professional wrestling have often gone unrecognized. However, their courage and determination have left an enduring impact on the sport, dismantling racial biases and paving the way for a more inclusive future in professional wrestling.
Awards:
– First Interracial Women’s Champion (1953)
– First Negro Women’s Tag Champions (with Marva Scott)