Volatile Facts About Dynamite Kid, The Original Wrestling Tragedy
Dynamite Kid was one of the best wrestlers in the ring—but his wild lifestyle and chilling mistakes led him straight to his tragic end.
1. He Left A Complicated Legacy
Dynamite Kid could have stood in the Wrestling Hall of Fame, but his appalling behavior locked him out.
He didn’t realize until it was too late that the cost of his greatness was everything: his body, mind, wife, family, friends, career, and legacy. While Dynamite Kid was an amazing wrestler, Tom Billington was a very flawed man.
2. He Was Destined For Wrestling
In 1958, Tom Billington was born into an English family with aggression running through its veins. The family tree was filled with wrestlers and boxers. On top of that, Billington suffered physical punishment from his teachers and father. Tom’s father once punched him in the face and broke his nose.
That said, it’s no wonder that Billington learned to use his fists inside and outside the ring.
3. He Became A Rising Star
Many people are either naturally gifted or hard-working—but Billington was both. After a childhood of relentless training, he debuted at 17. Billington soon went by Dynamite Kid, which suited him since his talent was undeniable. As he traveled the world, honed his craft, and racked up victories, he crossed paths with a special girl and her special family.
4. He Had A Legendary Brother
Dynamite Kid didn’t just become a wrestling legend, he joined a wrestling dynasty. When Julie Smadu married Bret Hart of the legendary Hart wrestling family, she brought her little sister Michelle along for the ride. When Dynamite Kid and Michelle married, he was 24 and she was 18. It’s no wonder why Julie felt protective. He would, in the worst way, prove Julie right.
