Fans of professional wrestling are mourning the loss of Jerry Oates.
Oates’ family announced that he passed away on Friday, September 4, via the Facebook page of his Oates Gym in Columbus, Georgia. No cause of death was revealed. Oates was 81.
A Four-Decade Career in Pro Wrestling
“It is with heavy hearts that the family of Jerry Oates announces his passing,” reads the statement from the late athlete’s family.
“Born in Columbus, Georgia, Jerry lived a full and impactful life marked by his passion for professional wrestling, fitness, and service to his community. From 1970 to 2010, he enjoyed a distinguished career as a professional wrestler. He owned and operated the Oates Gym, a cornerstone of the Columbus fitness community for more than two decades. He also promoted bodybuilding and wrestling events and later served as a deputy with the Tybee Island Police Department and the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office. Jerry touched countless lives through his strength, generosity, and enduring spirit,” continued the statement, which revealed that a memorial service had been scheduled for September 12.
Numerous Championship Titles
During his four decades in pro wrestling, Oates worked for All Japan Pro Wrestling and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA), holding numerous titles in the latter.
Among these were: NWA Central States Heavyweight Championship; NWA Central States Tag Team Championship with brother Ted Oates, and then with Ronnie Garvin; NWA Pacific Northwest Heavyweight Championship; and NWA Pacific Northwest Tag Team Championship with Jesse Ventura.
He Trained Future Wrestling Stars
After retiring from pro wrestling, Oates focused on his Columbus gym, where he also trained the next generation of wrestling stars.
Among the wrestlers to benefit from his tutelage are J-Rod, AJ Steele, Marty Jannetty, Randy Hogan, Tom Ivy and Craig Brown.
Tributes Poured In
As the Ledger-Enquirer reports, the Facebook post announcing Oates’ passing was flooded with tributes.
“When I was a boy, we lived in East Highland for a while. In the Tolbleton Road apartments right across the street and the railroad tracks from Oates Gym. I used to wonder over there and occasionally see a professional wrestler. Mr. Oates would be there sometimes, and he was always nice to us kids. Rest In Peace Sir,” wrote John Marshall.
“He walked into where I worked at Winn Dixie back many years ago and man we talked for about an hour. He always treated his fans like they were his only fan! RIP brother I’m gonna miss you,” wrote Donnie Cook.
“He was a legend. Jerry treated us all like men. … Literally helped shape a generation or two of Columbus’ best athletes,” wrote Kevin Stewart.
“He was more than just a wrestler, he was one of the most honest and respected men in Columbus, a friend to anyone that would let him be. The world lost a good one! See you on the other side brother. Fly high,” wrote Robert North
“The CAC mourns the passing of professional wrestling great Jerry Oates at the age of 81,” noted the Cauliflower Alley Club on Facebook. “A true craftsmen of the ring, Jerry was respected not just for his toughness and skill, but for the professionalism and pride he brought to the business every single night. He helped shape an era and earned the admiration of fans and peers alike through hard work, grit and authenticity.”
