Died: 1957 (Boston)
Biography:
Cora B. Bowser, better known by her ring name Cora Livingston (also spelled as Livingstone), was an American professional wrestler and the first women’s world champion in professional wrestling history.
Early Life:
Cora Livingston’s parents tragically passed away when she was young, leaving her orphaned. She was subsequently placed in a convent school where she was raised by the caring nuns. Despite facing adversity at a young age, Livingston’s spirit remained strong, laying the foundation for her future accomplishments.
Professional Wrestling Career:
Hailing from Buffalo, New York, Livingston’s wrestling journey began at the age of 16 when she joined the circus. It was within this world of nomadic entertainment that she discovered her passion for wrestling and embarked on a remarkable career. On March 19, 1906, at the Lafayette Theatre in Buffalo, Livingston’s first documented match took place, establishing her presence in the wrestling scene.
Livingston’s fame rose steadily as she toured across the United States and Canada, gaining a reputation as a formidable competitor. In 1910, she achieved a historic milestone by defeating Laura Bennett, earning the title of the first women’s champion recognized in the world. This victory solidified her place in wrestling history and paved the way for future generations of female athletes.
Throughout her career, Livingston faced numerous opponents known for their exceptional skill, such as Bessie Farrar and Celina Pontos. On September 7, 1910, she faced off against May Nelson in a highly intense match. Unfortunately, the passion of the crowd became so overwhelming that the police had to intervene, halting the match. Despite the interruption, Livingston remained a dominant force in the sport, defending her championship title until her retirement.
Personal Life and Legacy:
In 1913, Cora Livingston married fellow wrestler Paul Bowser, uniting two forces within the wrestling world. Even after retiring from professional wrestling, Livingston continued to contribute to the industry by assisting her husband in running the New England wrestling territory. This partnership allowed them to shape the future of wrestling in their region.
Tragically, Cora Livingston passed away on April 22, 1957, in Boston. However, her legacy as the pioneering women’s world champion in professional wrestling endures. The barriers she broke and the path she forged for future female athletes have left an indelible mark on the sport. Cora Livingston will forever be remembered as a trailblazer whose determination and strength shattered gender norms and inspired generations to come.
Awards:
– First Women’s World Champion in Professional Wrestling