Biography:
Melissa Ann Hiatt, better known by her ring name Missy Hyatt, is an American retired professional wrestling valet, commentator, model, and occasional professional wrestler. She was born on October 16, 1963. Hyatt is widely recognized for her appearances with World Championship Wrestling (WCW) from 1987 to 1994, but she has also worked with other notable wrestling promotions such as World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW), the Universal Wrestling Federation (UWF), the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), and Impact Wrestling.
Hyatt’s journey in the world of professional wrestling began in September 1985 when she was hired by the Dallas-based promotion WCCW as a valet for her then-boyfriend, professional wrestler John Tatum. She gained attention for her signature move of hitting her rivals with a loaded Gucci purse. During her time in WCCW, she was involved in a heated feud with another valet, Sunshine. Their rivalry culminated in a mud-pit match at Texas Stadium in 1986.
In mid-1986, Hyatt and Tatum joined the Universal Wrestling Federation (UWF) based in Oklahoma. There, Hyatt embarked on a lengthy feud with fellow valet Dark Journey, which lasted until early 1987. Alongside Tatum, Hyatt joined Eddie Gilbert’s stable known as Hot Stuff International, later renamed Hot Stuff & Hyatt International. However, a disagreement between Tatum and Gilbert led to Hyatt aligning herself with Gilbert by striking him with her loaded purse during a match between the two men.
While still under contract with the UWF, Hyatt was approached by the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1987. Vince McMahon, the owner of WWF, wanted Hyatt to replace Rowdy Roddy Piper and his segment, Piper’s Pit, with a new segment called Missy’s Manor. Although the show featured popular stars like Macho Man Randy Savage with Miss Elizabeth, The Honky Tonk Man, and Harley Race, it was ultimately deemed disappointing. McMahon then offered Hyatt a role as a Federette, one of the female attendants employed at television tapings. Dissatisfied with this proposition, Hyatt decided to return to the UWF.
In 1988, when the UWF was purchased by Jim Crockett Promotions, part of the National Wrestling Alliance, Hyatt and Gilbert briefly transitioned to the Memphis-based Continental Wrestling Association. During their time in the promotion, Hyatt accompanied Gilbert in his feud with Jerry Lawler. The couple later moved to the Knoxville-based Continental Championship Wrestling, where Hyatt revived her popular Missy’s Manor interview segment. One memorable edition saw Hyatt being held down and forcibly kissed by Samoans Sika and Kokina, who were managed by Alan Martin.
Throughout her career, Missy Hyatt made numerous appearances and contributions to the world of professional wrestling. Her strong presence and charismatic persona made her a beloved figure among fans. While her in-ring abilities were limited, she excelled as a valet and commentator, captivating audiences with her quick wit and unparalleled microphone skills. Hyatt’s impact on the wrestling industry was significant, and her influence can still be seen in the role of valets and managers in modern wrestling.