Born: 1936 (Alton, Illinois)
Biography:
Beverly Hammer Shade was a prominent figure in the women’s wrestling scene for several decades. Born on March 21, 1936, in Alton, Illinois, Shade grew up with a passion for wrestling. She found herself in close proximity to the sport in St. Louis, where she would often attend matches and develop a keen interest in pursuing a career in the industry.
Shade’s path into professional wrestling began when she caught the attention of the legendary promoter, Sam Muchnick. Muchnick recognized her potential and sent her to Tampa, Florida, to train under the guidance of Cowboy Lutrell. It was there that Shade received her initial training from Ella Waldek, a notable female wrestler and trainer. In 1957, Shade made her professional wrestling debut, participating in a multi-women’s elimination battle royal in Lakeland, Florida.
Throughout her career, Shade encountered the dominant presence of Lilian Ellison, better known as Fabulous Moolah. Despite Moolah’s formidable influence in the wrestling industry, Shade chose not to be trained by her or affiliated with her troupe. In her refusal to work with Moolah, Shade cited financial concerns, stating that she did not want to surrender all her earnings to Moolah. While Shade maintained an amicable relationship with Moolah, she remained independent and free from any contractual obligations.
Shade’s career brought her various opportunities, including a tour of Japan in 1979 and appearances in the Northeast for the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF) in 1980. During this time, Shade had the privilege of teaming up with Moolah against formidable opponents like Kandi Malloy and Peggy Lee. One notable match took place on August 8, 1980, as part of the undercard at Shea Stadium, headlined by Bruno Sammartino and Larry Zbyszko in a steel cage match.
In addition to her solo endeavors, Shade also formed partnerships with fellow wrestlers. She married fellow wrestler Billy Two River, and the two became a formidable mixed tag team, competing under the name Beverly Two River. Billy also established his own outlaw wrestling group in Florida, with Shade by his side, further solidifying their shared passion for the sport.
Throughout her career, Shade achieved numerous accolades. In 1978, she won the NWA Women’s Tag Team Championships alongside her trainee, Natasha The Hatchet Lady. Later on, Shade formed another successful partnership with her trainee Tracy Richards, forming the formidable duo known as The Arm & Hammer Connection.
Towards the end of her life, Shade faced significant health challenges, including a battle with lung cancer and pneumonia. Despite receiving hospice care, Shade’s condition deteriorated, leading to her passing at the age of 87. She left behind her husband Billy and their two children, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of women’s wrestling.
Awards:
– NWA Women’s Tag Team Championships (1978, with Natasha The Hatchet Lady)