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Karel Istaz (August 3, 1924 – July 28, 2007), best known by his ring name Karl Gotch, was a Belgian-American professional wrestler, amateur wrestler, catch wrestler, and trainer. He represented Belgium at the 1948 Summer Olympics in both freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling.
Karl Gotch was a legendary wrestler from Belgium who learned hooking and ripping techniques in England. He was a respected and feared competitor in Japan and the United States, and died in 2007.
Learn about the life and legacy of Karl Gotch, a legendary wrestler and trainer who influenced many of today's stars. Discover his Olympic background, his catch wrestling style, his respect for Lou Thesz, and his nickname in Japan.
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- Influenced MMA. Karl Gotch’s influence on mixed martial arts can’t be understated. Gotch’s influence on Antonio Inoki would involve not only training but also being Inoki’s cornerman for his landmark proto-MMA match with Muhammad Ali.
- Trained Notable Japanese Wrestlers. During his time working for NJPW, Karl Gotch had a hand in training a number of Young Lions who would themselves become major figures in the pro wrestling world.
- Worked For New Japan. As established, Karl Gotch’s technical style proved popular in Japan, making a particular impression on New Japan Pro-Wrestling founder Antonio Inoki, who wrestled Gotch in NJPW’s first-ever main event.
- Innovator Of Moves. Karl Gotch’s “God of Wrestling” moniker doesn’t just extend to his technical skill and success and influence in Japan. Gotch also innovated a number of maneuvers that fans still see today, like the Cradle Piledriver (now known as the Gotch-Style Piledriver) as well as the Tombstone Piledriver.
Learn about the life and career of Karl Gotch, a Belgian-born wrestler who became a legend in Europe and North America. From his amateur and Olympic achievements to his training and influence in catch-as-catch-can, Gotch was a kamisama of wrestling.
Jan 11, 2022 · Learn how Karl Gotch, a Belgian-German wrestler, created his mixed grappling style and influenced the evolution of professional wrestling. From his Olympic career to his NWA scandal to his god-status in Japan, Gotch shaped the techniques and philosophies of many legends.
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Jan 4, 2024 · Karl Gotch, originally named Charles Istaz, was a Belgium-born professional wrestler and catch wrestling practitioner and trainer. He played a significant role in the...
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